PALAKKAD: The Koppam police have registered a case against Premdas, a native of Paravur in Ernakulam, for allegedly breaking into a house in Muthuthala, Pattambi, and setting it on fire. He has been booked under charges of house trespass, assault, and attempted murder. Premdas, who attempted suicide after the incident, is currently undergoing treatment. Police said his statement will be recorded once doctors grant permission.

The incident occurred on Tuesday at the house of Ibrahim, an expatriate and a native of Machingathodi. According to police, Premdas set fire to the house while attempting to burn a car and a bike parked in the yard. The fire spread to the building, and he then slit his own throat in a suicide attempt.

Preliminary investigation suggests the act stemmed from a financial dispute. Ibrahim reportedly owed Premdas around Rs 1 lakh. The accused allegedly set fire to Ibrahim’s Innova car and bike after the debt was not repaid. Both vehicles were completely destroyed, and household items were also gutted in the blaze. The house sustained partial damage.

Only Ibrahim's wife and two children were present at home at the time of the incident. They managed to escape unhurt. Police later recovered a written notice from the scene related to the money dispute, in which Premdas accused Ibrahim of failing to return Rs 1 lakh and avoiding him despite repeated requests.