Husband arrested for attempting to kill wife and children by pouring petrol on them after estranged wife suspected of having an affair

Aruvappulam, Kerala – A horrifying case of domestic violence and attempted familicide has emerged from the quiet village of Michabhoomi, Thoppil, in Aruvappulam. A 34-year-old man, K. Sujith, was arrested on charges of attempting to kill his estranged wife and three children by pouring petrol on them and threatening to set them ablaze.

This gruesome crime has sent shockwaves across the region, underscoring the dark undercurrents of suspicion, toxic masculinity, and mental instability that can fester long after a marriage has broken down.

Background: A Marriage Broken by Distrust

Sujith, a resident of Sujith Bhavan in Kuzhaviyodu, Kadamancode, Thingalkarikam, had been separated from his 27-year-old wife Reshma for the past two years. Sources suggest that Sujith was consumed by suspicion over an alleged extramarital affair, which led to their separation. Reshma, originally from Kulathupuzha, had moved with their three children to her relative’s house—Ratheesh Bhavan in Michabhoomi—seeking safety and a fresh start.

But the past came back to haunt her on the night of June 24, when Sujith showed up at her doorstep, unannounced and unhinged.

The Night of Terror

At approximately 9:30 PM, Sujith arrived at Ratheesh Bhavan and demanded that Reshma open the door. Alarmed by his unexpected arrival and his aggressive behavior, Reshma refused to let him in. She feared for her life and that of her children.

But Sujith’s rage had not subsided. In an act of cold premeditation, he returned at around 1:00 AM—armed and prepared for violence. According to police reports, Sujith broke down the kitchen door using a mud shovel found in the yard. Once inside, he wielded a hammer, a plastic bottle filled with petrol, and a lighter.

He smashed the window glass, stormed into the room where Reshma and her three children were asleep, and poured petrol over them. The intention was unmistakable: to burn them alive.

Survivor’s Courage and Police Intervention

Miraculously, the situation did not escalate into a tragedy, thanks to Reshma’s quick thinking. She managed to escape and immediately filed a complaint at the local police station. Her statement was recorded by CPO Sandhya, and Konni Police Inspector P. Sreejith wasted no time in registering a case and launching an investigation.

Following Reshma’s complaint, a scientific investigation team and fingerprint experts were dispatched to the scene. They collected vital forensic evidence, including:

The bottle containing petrol

The lighter

The hammer

The mud shovel used to break in

Glass fragments from the broken window


Each item painted a chilling picture of Sujith’s violent intent.

The Arrest: A Coordinated Police Operation

On the orders of the District Police Chief, a manhunt was launched to apprehend the accused. Investigators tracked Sujith down to Kulathupuzha, his native village, where he was hiding.

A police team, led by Inspector Sreejith and supported by the Kulathupuzha Police, reached the location and arrested him late last night. After a detailed interrogation, Sujith confessed to the crime, and his formal arrest was recorded at 4:15 PM today. He has since been produced in court.

Reshma and Her Children: The Aftermath

Reshma, a housewife, and her three young children have been left deeply traumatized by the incident. While they survived physically unscathed, the emotional scars from such a life-threatening ordeal will take much longer to heal.

They are currently under the protection of the police, and social welfare agencies are expected to step in to provide counseling and long-term support.

Legal Implications: Attempted Murder and Domestic Violence

Sujith faces serious criminal charges, including:

Attempted murder

Criminal trespass

Housebreaking by night

Threatening with intent to cause death

Possession of deadly weapons


Depending on the legal proceedings, he could face life imprisonment or a minimum of 10 years in prison, as per IPC Sections 307 (attempt to murder) and 452 (house-trespass after preparation for hurt).

The incident also brings to the forefront the urgent need for stronger implementation of domestic violence laws, especially in cases involving estranged spouses.

A Broader Reflection: When Suspicion Turns to Savagery

This case is not an isolated event. Across India, similar tragedies unfold, often rooted in patriarchal mindsets, possessiveness, and lack of mental health intervention. When relationships break down, unresolved grievances and suspicion can turn lethal—especially when fueled by toxic masculinity and an obsession with control.

Reshma’s case serves as a stark reminder that separation does not always ensure safety—especially when the legal system fails to monitor high-risk individuals.

The Role of Community and Authorities

Thankfully, in this case, swift police action and community awareness prevented a potential massacre. The courage shown by Reshma in reporting the incident and the efficiency of Konni and Kulathupuzha Police teams played a crucial role in averting disaster.

It also emphasizes the importance of:

Community vigilance

Prompt police intervention

Support systems for domestic abuse survivors


Conclusion: A Wake-Up Call

This chilling incident in Aruvappulam is a wake-up call—not just for law enforcement, but for society as a whole. Domestic violence, especially involving estranged partners, should never be taken lightly. There must be proactive legal measures to protect vulnerable individuals and swift justice to deter future offenders.

For now, Reshma and her children have been given a second chance at life—but they, and others like them, deserve a society that doesn’t force them to live in fear.