Kochi, First Published Dec 26, 2021, 9:16 PM IST
Kochi: At least 24 people have been arrested in connection with a police attack by guest workers at Kitex during a Christmas celebration at Kizhakkambalam, Ernakulam. Two criminal cases were registered in the incident. Eighteen people were arrested for attempted murder and six guest workers for destroying public property. The suspects were identified with the help of footage, including those who set fire to police vehicles. Meanwhile, a 19-member special investigation team led by Perumbavoor ASP was formed.
For a whole night, the guests were stranded on the east bank of the river. Workers at Kitex’s labor camp dispute Christmas carol. The walker got into a fight while intoxicated. The locals informed the police long before they reached Kayyankali Road. When the police arrived, the workers turned on them. The Kunnathunadu inspector and others were stoned and attacked. Eventually the officers had to leave the police vehicle and escape.
The attackers set fire to a police vehicle and smashed two. The situation was calmed down when the Rural SP and others reached the spot. One hundred and sixty-six people were taken into custody after a search of the workers’ residences. The attackers were then identified with the help of video footage. Police identified the culprits and arrested them.
The SIT has decided to question more people in the coming days. Five policemen, including the Kunnathunadu inspector, who were injured in the incident, are undergoing treatment. Kitex M Audi Sabu M Jacob said that it was the Kitex employees who arrested the culprits and handed them over to the police and will co-operate fully with the investigation.
Last Updated Dec 26, 2021, 9:31 PM IST
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