Family Tragedy Unfolds in Wayanad as Man Dies in Apparent Self-Immolation Incident
A devastating family tragedy struck the quiet town of Mananthavady in Wayanad district, Kerala, late on Thursday night. A 45-year-old man lost his life, while his wife and their two-year-old daughter sustained serious burn injuries in what police are investigating as a suspected suicide attempt by self-immolation inside a parked car.
Details of the Heartbreaking Incident
The incident occurred around 10 PM at Erumatheruvu near Mananthavady. The deceased has been identified as Sajeer M P, a resident of Malayanteparambath House in Vallithode near Iritty, Kannur. According to preliminary reports from the Mananthavady police, Sajeer parked his car in front of the house of an individual named E C Bappu, with whom he reportedly had ongoing financial and business dealings.
In a shocking turn of events, Sajeer allegedly poured petrol on himself and set himself ablaze while inside the vehicle. His wife, Najmunnisa (37), and their young daughter, Aisha (2), were also present in the car at the time and suffered burn injuries as a result of the fire.
Family Members' Condition and Heroic Rescue Effort
The couple's two sons, Nibran (14) and Nisan (9), managed to escape the vehicle unharmed. Reports indicate that the eldest son, Nibran, displayed remarkable presence of mind by quickly exiting the car and pulling his younger siblings and mother to safety amidst the chaos. This swift action likely prevented further tragedy.
Najmunnisa and Aisha were immediately rushed to the Mananthavady Government Medical College Hospital for emergency treatment. Medical authorities confirmed that Najmunnisa has sustained approximately 50% burn injuries, which are considered serious. Her condition is being closely monitored by doctors. Fortunately, young Aisha's injuries were reported to be minor, and she is expected to recover fully with proper medical care.
Police Investigation and Pre-Incident Videos
The Mananthavady police have launched a comprehensive investigation into the incident. During their preliminary inquiries, investigators discovered that Sajeer had recorded a video prior to the tragic event. In this recording, he reportedly levelled serious allegations against E C Bappu, the individual in front of whose house the incident took place.
Additionally, police found another video recording where Sajeer made allegations against another person to whom he had reportedly handed over his textile shop. These videos are now crucial pieces of evidence that may shed light on the possible motives behind this extreme act. The police inspector handling the case stated that all aspects, including financial disputes and personal conflicts, are being thoroughly examined.
Community Shock and Ongoing Developments
The local community in Wayanad has been left in a state of shock and mourning following this tragic incident. Such violent acts of self-harm are rare in the region, and the fact that it involved family members has particularly disturbed residents. Neighbors and acquaintances described Sajeer as a family man who ran a textile business, making the circumstances of his death all the more puzzling and heartbreaking.
As the investigation continues, authorities are focusing on several key areas:
- The nature and extent of financial dealings between Sajeer and E C Bappu
- The contents and context of the video recordings made by Sajeer
- The circumstances that led to the presence of family members in the car during the incident
- Any previous complaints or disputes that might have contributed to the tragedy
The police have assured the public that they are pursuing all leads diligently and will provide updates as the investigation progresses. Meanwhile, the family continues to receive medical attention and support from relatives and community members during this difficult time.
