Thrissur: A three-member armed gang allegedly attacked Thrissur Ragam Theatre owner Sunil and his driver outside his home at Velappaya on Thursday night, police said on Friday. Sunil, 54, who owns Ragam, the popular cinema hall in the city, and his driver, Atheesh, 38, sustained injuries in the assault.

According to the FIR, the incident occurred around 9.45 pm when Sunil reached his residence near the Velappaya overbridge. As Atheesh stepped out of the car to open the gate, an unidentified man attacked him with a sword, injuring his hand as he tried to defend himself.

A second assailant then smashed the car door glass with a hammer and struck Sunil with a sword, causing injuries to his hands and fingers, the FIR stated.

The third attacker reportedly sprayed a substance inside the vehicle. When Sunil attempted to block him with his leg, he was also hit with a sword, police said.

The gang fled when local residents arrived. Sunil and Atheesh were taken to a private hospital in Thrissur.

Medical College Police registered a case based on Sunil’s statement and have launched an investigation. A police officer said the suspects have been identified as members of a criminal gang. CCTV footage has been recovered, and efforts are underway to arrest the accused.

Police suspect the attack may be linked to a financial dispute. Further investigation is ongoing.

PTI inputs