Locked room, rope and seconds to spare: Kerala cops’ swift action saves young man

Kozhikode, Kerala: A late-night phone call to the Nadakkavu police station on Friday set off a life-saving mission, as Kerala Police rescued a young man who was attempting suicide by hanging inside a room in the city. The incident unfolded like a real-life drama that could rival any film.

“Missing person from Kuthuparamba, Kannur. Last seen near Nadakkavu police station area. Photo, phone number, and tower location can be sent,” read the information received by ASI P. Suneesh on Friday night.

The location traced was Eranjippalam–Shastri Nagar, a densely populated area with numerous hotels, hostels, and hospitals. Acting swiftly, ASI Suneesh, CPO N. Nishob, and driver M. Mohammed Jishad immediately reached the area to begin the search.

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The police searched multiple locations, showing the young man’s photo to hotel staff, locals, and residents. When vehicles could not access certain narrow areas, the team continued on foot, checking homes and speaking with residents. Even when a dog jumped in front of the officers, the search continued undeterred.

After walking more than five kilometres and retracing earlier locations, a hotel worker near the Co-Operative Hospital recognised the man and pointed the police to a room on the third floor.

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When the officers arrived, the door was locked, and attempts to enter using a spare key from the room boy failed. Peering through the keyhole, they spotted the man trying to hang himself from the fan using a rope tied to the bed. Without hesitation, the officers broke down the door and intervened.

The young man had attempted suicide due to personal distress, leaving a note detailing his struggles. Using encouraging words and calm persuasion, the police managed to convince him to step down.