Historian arrested for assaulting man, son

Police arrested a historian on Saturday for allegedly assaulting a man and his son after questioning him about blocking a road in the city, officials said. The arrested person has been identified as Shyamkumar alias Thakaraparambu Kuttan, who allegedly assaulted BNSL employee Rajesh Kumar (53) and his 17-year-old son, residents of Sreekanteswaram in Vanchiyoor.

According to the police, efforts are on to trace another accused, identified as Arun, who allegedly joined Shyamkumar in attacking the father-son duo on Friday night. Police said the incident took place around 8:30 pm on Friday when Mr. Kumar and his son were returning home on a motorcycle after a class.

At that time, Shyamkumar allegedly parked his car in the middle of the road and was talking to a friend, causing a traffic jam. When Mr. Kumar honked and asked him to move the vehicle to allow other motorists to pass, Shyamkumar allegedly flew into a rage and assaulted them along with Arun.

Police said bystanders were initially hesitant to intervene as Shyamkumar was known as a feared criminal in the area. The defendant left the scene after a crowd began to gather. The injured were later taken to hospital. According to the police, Mr Kumar suffered a fracture while his son suffered facial injuries.

Vanchiyoor police registered a case of attempt to murder and arrested Shyamkumar from Vattiyurkavu area on Saturday. Police said the accused is involved in several criminal cases and is listed as a troublemaker at the city police station. Earlier, he was also booked under the Kerala Anti-Social Activities (Prevention) Act (KAAPA). Police said further steps would be taken to appeal KAAPA against him again and to seek his remand in connection with the latest case.

Published – June 6, 2026 11:33 PM IST