Kochi : The police have intensified the search for the culprits in the incident where a young woman was insulted in a mall. Attempts are now being made to check out more CCTV footage of the mall. The name and information entered at the entrance will also be checked. Police have identified the perpetrators but have not been able to nab anyone after 24 hours. The inquiry was intensified after the Women and Youth Commissions sought an urgent report on the incident.
Lulu Mall officials handed over the CCTV footage of the incident to the police. The footage of the suspects has been obtained from this. It is learned that the vehicles of the accused have been identified. The fact that the face of the accused was not visible as he was wearing a mask set back the investigation. Police will then check other CCTV footage in the vicinity for further clarity.
Though she did not lodge a complaint with the police, the actress had revealed her plight on social media. This was followed by widespread protests. The actress’ social media post said that she was insulted by two young men and touched on her body when she arrived with her family at Lulu Shopping Mall in Edappally on Thursday. The accused chased the actress at a mall hypermarket. He then touched her body and passed through an empty corridor.
The actress did not respond, thinking it was not intentional. The actress said that when she stopped to pay at the counter, the accused approached her again and harassed her. The youths left the place when the actress’ mother approached. Kochi City Police Commissioner Vijay Sakhare, who took note of the actress’ note, directed the Kalamassery police to investigate immediately. After going to the actress’ house and giving her statement, the police took a written complaint from her mother.
Lulu Mall officials said security at the mall was strong and flawless. They said they would co-operate with the investigation. The State Women’s Commission and the Youth Commission have voluntarily registered a case in the incident.
