Four Arrested After Armed Gang Creates Terror Near Temple, Injures Man Who Questioned Them

Thiruvananthapuram: Thumba police have arrested four persons in connection with an incident in which an armed gang created a climate of terror near the Panayudemood temple at Manvila Kizhakkumkara on Sunday evening, and assaulted a local resident who questioned their behaviour.

The incident occurred around 4 pm when a seven-member group arrived on four motorcycles and began creating a threatening atmosphere near the temple. When Jayakumar (58), a resident living near the temple, confronted them, the youths abused him verbally and struck him on the head with an iron rod, causing injuries. As local residents rushed to the scene, the gang pointed a firearm at them to threaten them before fleeing on their motorcycles.

Following a complaint from residents, police launched an investigation and arrested four persons: Anas (21) of Kuzhivila Kunnil house; Adwaidh (20) of Manvila Puthiyedathu; Afsal (21) of Elluvila Putthen Veedu, Rose Nagar, Sreekariyam; and Al Noor Sidique (19) of Chavadimukku Manthara Vilakam. A firearm, iron rods, a sword, and a knife were seized from the accused. A search is underway for the remaining suspects.