Two of Veerappan's associates lodged in coimbatore central jail in connection with the murder of three persons, including forest ranger Chidambaranathan, have been released on the occasion of Arignar Anna's birth anniversary.
Coimbatore: Veerappan has been a nightmare for the police in four states of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala for many years. In this case, the Tamil Nadu Commando Force police shot dead sandalwood smuggler Veerappan in an encounter.
In July 1987, three persons, including forest ranger Chidambaranathan, were murdered by Veerappan at Sathyamangalam. The Bangalapudur police in Erode district have registered a case of murder and are investigating the matter.
Mathaiyan, brother of Sandalwood smuggler Veerappan, and Andiappan and Perumal, who were residing in Karumalaikoodal area of Mettur, were arrested. All the three were lodged in coimbatore central jail.
Maathaiyan, who was lodged in coimbatore jail, was lodged in salem central jail seven years ago. Meanwhile, Maathaiyan passed away due to old age and died due to lack of treatment.
Veerappan's associates Andiyappan, Perumal, Deacon, Abdul Razzaq and Ibrahim, who were lodged in the Coimbatore Central Jail, were released yesterday after a gap of 32 years.
The 14 life convicts in coimbatore central jail are being released from jail on the occasion of the 113th birth anniversary of former Tamil Nadu CM CN Annadurai.
In the fifth phase, two of Veerappan's associates have been released on Monday.