Kochi, August 27, 2025 – In a significant development, the Kerala High Court has granted actress Lakshmi Menon protection from arrest until September 17, 2025, in connection with the alleged abduction and assault of an IT professional in Kochi. Menon, a well-known figure in Tamil and Malayalam cinema, had sought anticipatory bail following her implication in the case. The court, presided over by Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas, will revisit the matter on the specified date.
— Tharani ʀᴛᴋ (@iam_Tharani) August 27, 2025
The incident occurred on the night of August 24, 2025, following a dispute at Velocity Bar on Banerjee Road. The complainant, 27-year-old Aliyar Shah Saleem from Aluva, alleged that a quarrel escalated when Menon, along with three others—Mithun, Aneesh, and Sonamol—chased his group’s vehicle. Near the Ernakulam North railway overbridge, Saleem was forcibly removed from his car, assaulted, and abducted. He was later released at Aluva–Paravur junction after being beaten and threatened. Video evidence reportedly shows Menon participating in the altercation, including blocking the road and acting aggressively.
Three of the accused—Mithun, Aneesh, and Sonamol—have been arrested and remanded to judicial custody. Menon, however, remains absconding, with Kochi police actively searching for her. Kochi City Police Commissioner Putta Vimaladitya confirmed that while Menon’s name is not yet in the First Information Report (FIR), she is under investigation based on the video evidence and witness statements. A counter-complaint filed by Sonamol against a member of Saleem’s group is also being investigated.
The case, registered under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for kidnapping, assault, wrongful restraint, and criminal intimidation, has drawn significant attention due to Menon’s celebrity status. The actress, known for films like Sundara Pandian (2012), Kumki (2012), Jigarthanda (2014), and the recent Sabdham (2025), has not issued a public statement. The investigation continues, with police urging anyone with information on Menon’s whereabouts to come forward. Further updates are expected as the case progresses.
