Kozhikode (Kerala): A woman was allegedly caught stealing from Souparnika Jewellery near Pantheerankavu, Kozhikode, on Thursday and was restrained by locals before being handed over to the police.

The suspect, identified as Saudabi, from Peruvayal, arrived at the shop around 10 am and asked to see several pieces of jewellery. As the salesman displayed the ornaments, shop owner Muttancheri Rajan turned away briefly to take out additional pieces. At that moment, the woman reportedly sprayed pepper spray into his face.

Realising it was an attempted theft, Rajan tried to restrain her. According to witnesses, the woman then sprayed a petrol-scented liquid on herself and attempted to set herself on fire. Locals rushed in, subdued her and tied her legs before calling the police. Rajan suffered minor injuries after slipping and falling during the struggle.

Police said a case has been registered in connection with the alleged theft and confirmed that the woman has been taken into custody.

PTI inputs