Assault on young women in Kochi: police to issue lookout notice against main accused

The police, who are investigating the alleged attack on two young women in Kaloor, are preparing to issue a surveillance circular against the prime accused, Palakkad native Ali Akbar. Investigators said Akbar had a criminal record and had previously been the subject of a POCSO case within city limits.

Police sources said Akbar was allegedly involved in illegal prostitution racket under the guise of a hospitality business.

While Akbar and six others escaped, the three arrested persons (Alvin, Arun and Sabith, a native of Edappal in Malappuram, both natives of Mannarkkad in Palakkad) were put in judicial custody. The trio were employees of Akbar.

Meanwhile, the investigation team raided an accommodation facility run by Akbar on Kaloor-Puthiya Road. However, the police could not make much progress because the facility was closed when they arrived.

Police said the remaining suspects will be identified once they are taken into custody. The alleged attack took place on Chakkalapadam Road in Kaloor at around 4.30 am on Tuesday, June 2, 2026. The women were returning to their hostel after drinking tea when the group allegedly made obscene gestures and sexually explicit remarks towards them, leading to a conflict and physical assault.