Tue Aug 05 11:16:29 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
A man named Arulraj, 27, who was suspected of stealing a motorcycle near Thirukkuvalai in Nagapattinam district, drowned while trying to escape local residents who were chasing him. Arulraj jumped into a pond and never resurfaced. His body was recovered by the Kilvelur Fire and Rescue Services after an hour-long search. Initial investigations revealed that Arulraj had a prior criminal record, including a prison sentence for the sexual assault and murder of a child in 2024.
**News Article:**
**Motorcycle Theft Suspect Drowns While Fleeing Mob in Nagapattinam**
**NAGAPATTINAM, August 5, 2025** – A 27-year-old man identified as Arulraj, from Nallathur in Karaikal district, drowned today while attempting to evade local residents who were pursuing him after allegedly stealing a motorcycle near Thirukkuvalai, Nagapattinam district.
According to reports, Arulraj allegedly stole a motorbike belonging to Vijayakumar, a resident of Kodiyalathur village. Upon witnessing the theft, villagers gave chase. In an attempt to escape, Arulraj jumped into a pond situated in the northern part of the village.
When Arulraj failed to resurface, concerned villagers alerted the authorities. The Kilvelur Fire and Rescue Services were dispatched to the scene. After an hour-long search operation, a team recovered Arulraj’s body from the water.
Preliminary investigations have revealed a disturbing past for the deceased. Arulraj had previously served a prison sentence for the sexual assault and murder of a nine-year-old boy in 2024. Police suspect that in this instance, he was attempting to flee after stealing the bike when he drowned.
The body has been sent to Nagapattinam Government Medical College Hospital for a post-mortem examination. The investigation is ongoing.
First Piper 