Man arrested for issuing death threats to mayor; motive under investigation

KOLLAM: The Kollam East Police have arrested a 52-year-old man for allegedly threatening to kill Kollam Mayor Honey Benjamin. The accused, Anil Kumar, a native of Karikkakom in Thiruvananthapuram, was taken into custody after CCTV footage showed him approaching the mayor’s residence early Monday morning while wielding a knife.

According to police, Kumar has a history of fraud and cheating cases registered at various police stations. Locals grew suspicious when he was seen questioning a fish vendor about the mayor’s exact address. After observing his suspicious behaviour, residents informed the mayor, who then filed a formal complaint with the city police commissioner.

Authorities confirmed that Kumar had been loitering near the mayor’s house and office for several days. Police are now probing whether this was a planned attack, if the accused acted alone, or if others were involved.

Senior officers have joined the investigation, and security has been tightened around the mayor’s residence and office. While the motive behind the threat remains unclear, officials are closely examining Kumar’s background and possible connections.

The suspect was produced before the magistrate and has been remanded in judicial custody for 14 days. The Kollam City Commissioner reassured the public that the safety of elected officials is being taken seriously and that further action will follow based on the findings of the interrogation.

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