Kerala Real Estate Dealer Arrested in Multiple Missing Women Cases
A 65-year-old real estate dealer from Kerala, arrested in the disappearance of a woman from Kottayam, has emerged as the prime suspect in a series of cold cases involving at least three other missing women. Police have uncovered burnt human remains on his property, raising suspicions of a broader and more sinister pattern.
Real EstateMissing WomenCrimeKeralaForensic InvestigationReal Estate NewsAug 05, 2025
Sebastian, a resident of Pallipuram in Alappuzha district, was arrested on July 28 after fresh leads in the disappearance of 60-year-old Jainamma (Jain Mathew) from Ettumanoor, Kottayam, who went missing in December 2024, pointed squarely to him. But what began as a single missing persons case has now spiralled into a possible multi-victim crime saga.
During a search of Sebastian’s property, police unearthed burnt human remains, triggering alarm bells and reopening three older missing women cases in which his name had quietly surfaced — but never stuck. Authorities are now preparing a large-scale forensic excavation of Sebastian’s extensive compound in Chennampallipuram panchayat, suspecting a broader and more sinister pattern.
Jainamma was last seen on December 23, 2024. Her family initially believed she had gone to a meditation retreat. But when days passed without contact and her phone went silent, a missing person report was filed. Digital surveillance placed her phone in multiple locations that matched Sebastian’s movements. CCTV footage confirmed his presence near the last known location of her device.
Crucially, on the day of Sebastian’s arrest, skeletal remains and a dental cap were recovered from his property. While Jainamma’s family ruled out the dental cap belonging to her, the discovery reopened the cold case of Ayesha, a woman from Varanad in Cherthala who disappeared years ago. Ayesha had known ties to Sebastian, with her friend Rosamma confirming that Ayesha had sought his help for a land purchase — a recurring link in all the cases.
Even more damning is Sebastian’s alleged connection to the long-unsolved disappearance of Bindhu Padmanabhan from Kadakarappally, who vanished over a decade ago. In 2018, police had acted on suspicions at his residence, and Bindhu’s brother accused Sebastian and others of illegally transferring assets worth several crores in her name. Investigations found that a woman named Mini had impersonated Bindhu to execute a power of attorney and sell property worth Rs 5 crore. Mini later surrendered in court, while Sebastian — arrested at the time — was released on bail.
Now, with new evidence in hand and pressure mounting, Kerala Police believe they may have uncovered the workings of a calculated criminal who manipulated trust, wealth, and isolation to cover his tracks. A full forensic probe is underway, with authorities not ruling out more victims — and more graves — hidden beneath the surface.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Sebastian, and what is he accused of?
Sebastian is a 65-year-old real estate dealer from Pallipuram, Alappuzha, Kerala. He is accused of being involved in the disappearance of multiple women, including Jainamma from Ettumanoor, Kottayam, and is suspected of being a serial predator.
What evidence has been found against Sebastian?
Police have found burnt human remains on Sebastian’s property, and CCTV footage confirms his presence near the last known location of one of the missing women, Jainamma. Additionally, there are connections to other missing women cases, such as Ayesha and Bindhu.
What is the current status of the investigation?
A full forensic probe is underway, and authorities are preparing a large-scale excavation of Sebastian’s property. They are not ruling out the possibility of finding more victims and more evidence of his crimes.
How did Sebastian manipulate his victims?
Sebastian is alleged to have manipulated trust and wealth, often helping women with land purchases and other real estate transactions. This allowed him to isolate and potentially harm his victims without raising immediate suspicion.
What is the public reaction to this case?
The public reaction is one of shock and concern. Many are calling for a thorough investigation and justice for the families of the missing women. The case has also sparked discussions about the safety and regulation of the real estate sector in Kerala.
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