A vehicle belonging to Ashkar, the stepfather accused in the death of one-and-a-half-year-old Arshid in Nedumangad, was vandalised by unidentified persons in the early hours of Sunday.
The vehicle, which was parked outside his rented house at Panavoor, was allegedly damaged by two men who arrived on a motorcycle, according to local residents.
Ashkar, a taxi driver, had been living in the rented house for the past six months. The child’s mother, Akhila, had moved into the house about two months ago. Neighbours said the child was rarely seen outside and alleged that the couple maintained little interaction with local residents.
The incident came days after Ashkar was arrested in connection with the toddler’s death. He had taken the child to a hospital claiming the boy became unconscious while being fed rice. However, doctors found that the child had died before reaching the hospital.
During questioning, Ashkar allegedly confessed to police that he struck the child on the head after the toddler continued crying while being fed. Investigators said the blow caused severe head injuries and internal bleeding, leading to the child’s death.
The post-mortem examination reportedly revealed evidence of prolonged abuse. Doctors found 51 injuries on the child’s body, including multiple fractures, several of which were old. Injuries were also found on the child’s genital area.
Police are also examining the role of the child’s mother. Investigators said that although she was went to Tamil Nadu for a dance programme when the fatal incident occurred, she may have been aware of the abuse and failed to prevent it. Her possible involvement in the case is under investigation.
