CHENNAI: In a chilling case of targeted violence, the Thirumangalam police have arrested three young men — including the grandson of a senior DMK leader — for the deliberate killing of a 19-year-old Loyola College student in Chennai. The victim, Nithin Sai, an English literature student, was fatally struck by a luxury SUV while riding pillion on a two-wheeler.
The prime accused, S Chandru alias Chandrasekar (19), grandson of DMK functionary and Greater Chennai Corporation councillor Dhanasekaran, was arrested along with V Yashwin (18) and J Aaron Sam (21). A fourth suspect remains at large.
Deliberate Hit Over College Romance
According to police, the attack was premeditated and linked to a dispute over a romantic relationship involving a female Loyola College student. She had confided in a friend, Pranav, who then asked Chandru to “resolve” the matter. Chandru allegedly warned Venkatesan, a friend of Nithin Sai, of possible consequences.
On Monday, after celebrating a friend’s birthday, Nithin Sai and his classmate Abhishek were riding home on a two-wheeler. Police say Chandru and his associates were lying in wait in a Range Rover near School Road, Thirumangalam, intending to confront Venkatesan.
However, when Venkatesan passed by unnoticed, Chandru allegedly instructed the driver, Aaron, to intercept the bike — which mistakenly turned out to be Abhishek’s. The car rammed the two-wheeler from the side, flinging both riders into the air. Nithin Sai died on the spot, while Abhishek sustained injuries.
Arrests, Vehicle Seized, and One Still Absconding
The suspects abandoned the vehicle in Valasaravakkam and fled. The Range Rover has since been seized.
Following a complaint from the victim’s father, Suresh, police arrested the trio and produced them before a magistrate. All three were remanded to judicial custody.
“We are still searching for the fourth suspect who was in the car during the collision,” said a police officer.
The case has drawn public outrage due to the alleged misuse of power and the brutal nature of the attack, with many calling for swift justice.
