Violent Assault in Kerala: Man and Neighbors Attacked With Machetes After Autorickshaw Dispute

Near Kollam in Kerala, a violent incident unfolded when an autorickshaw driver and his associates invaded a man's home following a minor disagreement.

According to police reports, the victim, Anu, had attempted to hail an autorickshaw in Kundara town on Sunday when a verbal altercation occurred between him and the driver. Though they initially parted ways, the situation escalated dramatically when the driver returned to Anu's residence later that evening, accompanied by several friends.

CCTV surveillance captured approximately ten individuals arriving in the narrow street on three motorcycles and in an autorickshaw. The footage shows the men brandishing machetes and intimidating bystanders in the vicinity. Upon hearing the commotion, Anu emerged from his home and was immediately targeted by the group. In an attempt to escape, he retreated inside his house, but the assailants forced their way in.

During the attack, Anu sustained lacerations to his neck. Two neighbors, John and Gopakumar, who intervened to protect him, were also injured. John suffered wounds to his arms while Gopakumar received cuts to his jaw. After threatening additional onlookers who had gathered outside, the attackers fled the scene.

Law enforcement has filed a case including charges of attempted murder, causing grievous harm with dangerous weapons, criminal intimidation with deadly weapons, unlawful assembly, and common intention.

The official police report names five individuals - Siyadu, Niyas, Shamnad, Riyas, and Sulthan - along with ten unidentified accomplices. Authorities stated that victims have identified several attackers, providing valuable leads for the investigation.

In a Tuesday interview with NDTV, the Kundara Police Station house officer indicated that arrests would likely occur on Wednesday. The officer refuted claims that police have ignored gang activities in the town, emphasizing that a thorough investigation is underway and firm action will be taken against all individuals involved.