COIMBATORE: A 20-year-old engineering student was assaulted by a 10-member gang here on Saturday night after accusing him of stealing a gold chain belonging to his friend.According to police, the complainant, S Vinothkumar, 20, of Karaikudi in Sivaganga district, is pursuing his third year of B Tech in the city and is staying at a house in Mullai Illam near Power House Nagar in Irugur. About a year ago, Vinothkumar had gone to Ariyakudi Perumal Temple in Karaikkudi with his friends, Venkatesh, Easwaramurthy, Ashley and Pragadeesh. During the visit, Pragadeesh lost his chain.Around 9.40pm on Saturday, Venkatesh called up Vinothkumar and accused him of stealing the chain. An argument followed between the two.Around 11pm, Venkatesh, Easwaramurthy and Ashley went to Vinothkumar’s room and knocked on the door. A caretaker, identified as Rajesh, reportedly intervened and sent them away. However, around 1.30am, the three returned with seven others. Police said the gang knocked on the door, abused Vinothkumar and asked him to come outside.The gang took a plank and a spade used for construction work from nearby, broke open the door and entered the room. They assaulted Vinothkumar with their hands, the plank and a beer bottle and threatened him with serious consequences before fleeing.Based on a complaint lodged by Vinothkumar, the Singanallur police registered a case against Venkatesh, Easwaramurthy, Ashley and seven others under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Police said the gang members were yet to be secured.
