Keralam Home Minister asks Crime Branch to verify reports fugitive Sukumara Kurup is alive
The Kerala Home Minister has ordered the Crime Branch to investigate rumors that fugitive Sukumara Kurup, wanted for a 1984 murder, is still alive. Officials emphasized that these claims remain unverified and that the case remains an active long-pending investigation.
Why it matters
The case is a notorious cold case in India that has cultural significance due to its adaptation into popular cinema, and the potential discovery of the fugitive would be a major legal development.
Keralam Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala on Friday (August 28, 2026) said reports that fugitive Sukumara Kurup is still alive were “only rumours” and directed the Crime Branch to verify their veracity.
Kurup is wanted in connection with the 1984 murder of Chacko in Mavelikara, allegedly as part of a plan to fake his own death and claim a life insurance payout. Despite several investigation teams attempting to trace him since then, Kurup has remained absconding.
The case was also adapted into a Malayalam film, Kurup , starring Dulquer Salmaan in the titular role.
Recently, reports surfaced claiming that Kurup is alive and living in Brunei under a different name and using another passport.
Speaking to reporters, Mr. Chennithala said the case is currently being investigated by the Crime Branch and has been classified as a Long Pending (LP) case.
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