A repeat offender was killed in an encounter by Salem Rural Police on May 2. The deceased was identified as S. Kathirvel, who was cited as accused in over 6 cases including murder, according to police.
Sources said, Kathirvel was the prime accused in the recent murder of Ganeshan, a snack seller her, and police were on the lookout for him.
Ganeshan was murdered by Kathirvel and gang following a quarrel over money transactions.
On May 2 morning, based on a tip-off, police attempted to arrest him near Kariappatti here. In the process, Kathirvel attacked S.I Mari and Inspector Subramani with a knife. In retaliation, police shot him down, sources said.