Palakkad: A 25-year-old man was arrested for allegedly cheating a Class IX student of 9.5 sovereigns of gold after befriending her, police said on Sunday. The accused, identified as S V Vighnesh, a native of Chelakkara, had reportedly come to the minor's school for painting work. During this period, he developed a friendship with the minor after telling her of his supposed financial difficulties.
How the Cheating Occurred
According to police, Vighnesh collected gold ornaments from the student on multiple occasions, promising to return them later. However, when the girl demanded the ornaments back, he went absconding. Based on a complaint registered at the Kozhinjampara police station, an investigation was launched.
Arrest and Background
A police team led by sub inspector K P George later apprehended the accused from Chandranagar in Palakkad. Police said the accused had been staying in rented accommodations at different places. He is also an accused in two chain-snatching cases under the limits of the Palakkad South police station. In addition, he faces eight other cases, including ganja trafficking and assault, registered across various police stations.
The accused has been remanded in judicial custody, police added. The incident highlights the need for vigilance among students and parents regarding strangers who may approach with malicious intent.
