T’puram: An elderly woman displayed remarkable presence of mind by locking up a man who allegedly attempted to assault her at her residence near Chirayinkeezhu railway station on Sunday night, leading to his arrest.The accused has been identified as Anas (37) of Nedumangad. The incident occurred when the woman, who lives alone, was in her courtyard. Her husband and children are working abroad. According to police, Anas trespassed into the property by jumping over the compound wall and allegedly dragged the woman into the house, attempting to sexually assault her. He also tried to snatch her money and jewellery during the attack. However, the accused, who was reportedly under the influence of alcohol, became drowsy during the struggle. Seizing the opportunity, the elderly woman managed to push him into a room, lock it from outside, and rush out to alert neighbours and police. The area was crowded due to the ongoing festival at Sarkara Devi Temple, which helped quickly mobilize locals once she raised the alarm. Police said Anas is a history-sheeter involved in multiple cases. He is also an accused in an earlier case of misbehaving with a Russian woman and allegedly exposing himself near Varkala cliff. He was absconding in connection with that case, and police were on his lookout.Following the latest incident, Chirayinkeezhu police took him into custody. He was later produced before the Attingal court and remanded in judicial custody. Further probe is under way.
