Vellore landlord arrested for beating migrant worker to death over theft suspicion
A 51-year-old landlord has been arrested in Vellore for allegedly beating a 39-year-old migrant worker to death after mistaking him for a thief, police said on Saturday.
The accused, identified as R. Suresh, was taken into custody by the Vellore North police in connection with the death of Joyhind Munda, a native of Jalpaiguri district in West Bengal. Munda was a labourer working at a construction site.
According to police, on June 17, Munda arrived at Katpadi railway station with 13 other migrant workers from West Bengal, all en route to Chennai for work. After arriving, Munda left the station to meet a friend in town. He was later seen loitering near residential quarters on Old Katpadi Road, close to the new bus terminus.
Residents, including Suresh, confronted Munda and questioned his presence in the area. They suspected him of attempting a theft. A verbal argument escalated into a physical altercation, during which Munda sustained severe injuries.
The police were informed and admitted Munda to Government Pentland Multispeciality Hospital, where he died at around 3 a.m. the following day.
A case was registered, and an investigation was launched. Analysis of CCTV footage showed Suresh hitting Munda with wooden logs. Based on the evidence, Suresh was arrested and lodged at Vellore Central Prison. Further inquiries are ongoing.
Migrant workers often face suspicion and harassment in unfamiliar areas, highlighting the need for greater awareness and sensitivity. The case underscores the tragic consequences of unfounded accusations and vigilantism.
