THRISSUR: An auto driver allegedly strangled his 53-year-old female friend to death. The dead has been identified as Shajitha of Thalikulam. The police arrested Habeeb of Valapad. Police said he committed the crime after she refused to give him gold to pledge.

The incident happened Wednesday morning at 9.30 am. Shajitha was staying alone. Her neighbours rushed to her house after hearing her screaming.

They pushed open the door and saw her lying down. The locals caught Habeeb from another room. Gold was found in his pocket. Police said they are questioning him.