Coimbatore: Police have launched a search for four men accused of hurling petrol bombs at a woman’s residence in Coimbatore district after she allegedly ended contact with one of them upon learning about his criminal background. The incident, captured on CCTV cameras installed near the house, caused panic among family members, although no injuries were reported.
According to police, the attack took place after the woman distanced herself from the accused, identified as Karthik alias Mariappan, whom she had known since her college days. Investigators said the accused allegedly retaliated after the woman decided not to continue her association with him.
The incident has raised concern among residents over acts of intimidation and violence linked to personal disputes, with police now intensifying efforts to trace those involved.
CCTV footage captures sequence of events
According to the complaint filed with police, CCTV footage from the residence shows two motorcycles arriving one after another outside the gate of the house.
Police said that in the footage, the first motorcycle briefly stopped in front of the residence before a person riding pillion allegedly threw a petrol bomb into the compound. The object reportedly landed in the verandah area where a scooter and a bicycle had been parked.
Moments later, another motorcycle arrived and additional petrol bombs were allegedly thrown towards the same area.
The footage reportedly captured flames spreading in the verandah as family members rushed out after noticing the incident.
Authorities said the visuals are being examined as part of the ongoing investigation and may provide important leads regarding the identities and movements of those involved.
Family members escaped without injuries
Police stated that family members were present inside the house when the incident occurred.
The CCTV footage reportedly recorded sounds of panic from inside the residence as the fire spread in the compound area.
Officials said an elderly family member was seen rushing towards the verandah and attempting to move parked two-wheelers away from the flames before the fire caused further damage.
Residents and family members then worked together to control and extinguish the blaze.
Although a scooter reportedly caught fire during the incident, police confirmed that no injuries had been reported.
Authorities added that the quick response by those present helped prevent the situation from escalating further.
Complaint filed against accused
Based on a complaint lodged by the woman’s father, police at Thondamuthur Police Station registered a First Information Report and initiated an investigation.
Investigators said Karthik and three others have been named in connection with the incident.
According to the complaint, the accused allegedly abused the woman’s father and also issued threats during the course of the incident.
Police stated that further allegations mentioned in the complaint are being examined as part of the enquiry.
Authorities said the accused are currently absconding and efforts are underway to locate them.
Investigation underway to trace suspects
Police teams are examining CCTV footage from surrounding areas to track the movements of the suspects before and after the incident.
Investigators reportedly found visuals showing individuals allegedly carrying plastic bottles believed to contain petrol and visiting nearby shops before the attack.
Officials said all evidence collected so far is being analysed to establish the sequence of events and identify everyone involved.
Police added that legal action would proceed based on the findings of the investigation.
The incident has once again highlighted concerns over violent retaliation in personal disputes and the need for swift intervention in cases involving threats and intimidation.