Thiruvanathapuram’s Court VI suspended a murder trial upon discovering the absence of the approver’s statement. The case involves the alleged murder of taxi driver Kumar by a gang aiming to steal the vehicle in 2003. Five individuals were charged; they purportedly strangled Kumar during a trip and dumped his body in a canal. Investigations led to a sixth accused, Badarudeen, seeking to be an approver. However, the crucial statement was never recorded, leading to trial suspension. Prosecution worries this absence might weaken the case. The court plans to resolve this lapse before resuming the trial with the Kerala High Court’s permission.