Occult Murders of Kerala: Case Studies on Supernatural Belief-Driven Murders

Supernatural beliefs are embedded in cultural dynamics, influencing behavior and sometimes justifying crime. This study examined occult murders in Kerala, India, between 2014 and 2022, highlighting their occurrence in a region with the country’s highest literacy rate. Using analysis of interviews, police records, and media reports, four murder cases were documented in detail. Findings showed offenders, driven by superstition and personal gain, manipulating victims through trust and belief systems. As a rare examination of occult murders in Kerala, the study fills a gap in forensic and criminological literature, clarifies key characteristics and causal factors, advances theory, and informs practice.