T’puram: Vizhinjam police on Wednesday arrested a 30-year-old man, for allegedly threatening a prosecution witness and vandalising his house, in an attempt to force him to change his statement in a case involving harassment of women.Anilkumar of Mulloor, was arrested on charges of criminal intimidation, trespass and causing damage to property. According to Vizhinjam SHO V D Rejiraj, the accused has 12 criminal cases registered against him.Police said the incident occurred on Sunday when Anilkumar allegedly reached the residence of Babu, a native of Pulinkudi, who is a witness in the women harassment case. He reportedly demanded that the witness retract his earlier statement and depose in his favour.When the witness refused, the accused allegedly created a ruckus, smashed the windowpanes and issued death threats, said police.Following a complaint, the police registered a case and launched a probe. A police team led by SHO Rejiraj and SI P G Krishnalal tracked down and arrested the accused.The arrested accused was produced before a local court, which remanded him in judicial custody. Police said further probe is under way to ascertain whether he attempted to influence any other witnesses connected with the case.
