Daijiworld Media Network - Tirupati

Tirupati, Apr 13: A serial killer wanted in 21 cases across multiple states for targeting women living alone has been arrested in Tirupati, police said on Monday. His alleged accomplice, Rajamma, has also been taken into custody.

The accused, identified as Vishwanath, also known by aliases Prashanth and Aziz, had been evading arrest for years by frequently changing identities. He was wanted in several cases across Karnataka, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh.

Police said Vishwanath had been living under a fake identity in Tirupati since 2024. A breakthrough came during the investigation into the robbery-murder of a woman named Munishwari in Ramachandrapuram, where similarities with other cases were observed.

Investigators found a pattern in which women living alone were targeted. The accused allegedly gained their trust to enter homes before executing pre-planned murders and fleeing with gold jewellery. He is believed to have used an auto-rickshaw for movement during the crimes.

Using technical surveillance, CCTV tracking, and inputs from informants, police traced the vehicle and detained the accused. Gold ornaments worth nearly Rs 20 lakh were recovered from him.

Officials said Vishwanath was involved in at least four murders in Tirupati district, including in Tiruchanoor, Ramachandrapuram and Pitchatur areas. His accomplice Rajamma is suspected to have provided logistical support and shelter.

Describing him as a “hardened offender,” police said he carefully selected victims and executed crimes using a “trust-and-strike” method to avoid suspicion.

Vishwanath had earlier been convicted in a 2018 murder case in Kerala but escaped custody. A reward of Rs 2 lakh had been announced for information leading to his arrest.

Police are now working to link him to other unsolved cases and ensure justice for the victims, officials added.