A Class 11 student was brutally attacked by a three-member gang in Srivaikuntam town, Tamil Nadu’s Thoothukudi district, on Monday, March 10. It is suspected that the assault was carried out in retaliation over a previous clash during a Kabaddi match. The suspects have been detained by the police. Their identities are yet to be disclosed.
The victim, identified as 16-year-old T Devendran, is a resident of Ariyanayagipuram near Srivaikuntam. According to police reports, Devendran was on his way to school in Tirunelveli when the attack occurred. Upon reaching Kettiammalpuram, he noticed three individuals waiting for him.
Sensing danger, Devendran reportedly attempted to flee by getting off the bus, but the assailants chased him down and attacked him with a sickle.
He sustained severe injuries to his head and hands. Following the attack, the assailants fled from the scene.
Subsequently, passengers on the bus alerted authorities.
Srivaikuntam Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Ramakrishnan and his team rushed to the spot and initially shifted Devendran to Srivaikuntam Government Hospital. He was later taken to Tirunelveli Government Medical College Hospital for further treatment.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the attack may have been linked to a previous fight during a Kabaddi match. However, police are also probing allegations that Devendran had teased the sister of one of the attackers. The three suspects have been questioned, and further investigations are underway, the police said.
Police refused to share further information, stating that the investigation is underway.