The Crime Branch (CB) team probing the disappearance of Bindhu Padmanabhan from Kadakarappally in Alappuzha recorded the statements of her brother, Praveen, again on Thursday. The probe team also collected samples from him for DNA tests.
Mr. Praveen said that there were lapses in the initial phase of the investigation. “Bindhu was reported missing in 2006. After our father transferred ownership of the property through a sale deed, she became estranged from the family. I have not seen her since I went to Italy in 1999. There were 130 sovereigns of gold in her locker, but its whereabouts is unknown. Bindhu also had properties in five different locations, but none of them are in her name now. I met Sebastian at his house a few years ago. At that time, he claimed that there was ₹50 lakh in Bindhu’s name in the HDFC Bank, Cherthala branch. But it was all a lie. I am certain that Sebastian is involved in my sister’s disappearance,” Mr. Praveen said.
DNA testing
Last week, the Kottayam Crime Branch arrested Sebastian, a real estate broker, on the charge of murdering Jainamma (Jain Mathew) from Ettumanur. Prior to his arrest, investigators recovered skeletal remains from Sebastian’s house premises at Pallipuram. More bones were recovered from the property earlier this week. The remains have been sent for DNA testing and results are awaited.
Besides Bindhu and Jainamma, Sebastian is also under investigation in connection with the disappearance of Ayesha.
A local court in Kottayam has extended Sebastian’s police custody in the Jainamma murder case till August 12.
Published – August 07, 2025 05:48 pm IST
