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Chennai, Nov 12 (IANS) Two years after hurling a petrol bomb at the Tamil Nadu Raj Bhavan, notorious history-sheeter Karukka Vinoth, 39, has been sentenced to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment by a special court for National Investigation Agency (NIA) cases in Poonamallee.
The judgment delivered by Special Judge Malarvizhi also imposed a fine of Rs 5,000 on the accused. The sensational incident took place on October 25, 2023, when Vinoth threw two bottles filled with petrol at the main gate of Raj Bhavan, causing a small explosion and damaging parts of government property.
The sudden attack spread panic among the security personnel deployed at the Governor’s residence in Guindy.
Initially, Guindy police registered a case under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), Explosive Substances Act and Tamil Nadu Property (Prevention of Damage and Loss) Act.
However, considering the seriousness and sensitivity of the attack on a high-security installation, the Union Home Ministry transferred the investigation to the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
On November 10, 2023, NIA arrested Inspector R. The case was re-registered appointing Sibin Rajmon as the Chief Investigating Officer.
According to the prosecution, Vinoth had stolen petrol from a parked motorcycle in SM Nagar, Teynampet and filled it in empty liquor bottles before going to Raj Bhavan.
At around 2:40 pm, he threw bottles at the gate, causing a brief explosion. Security personnel immediately reached the spot and attempted to detain him, but Vinoth allegedly threatened them with violence and tried to escape before being brought under control.
Investigation revealed that the attack was carried out out of defiance and mischief without any organizational support.
The NIA presented evidence, including CCTV footage, eyewitness statements and forensic reports, which confirmed Vinoth’s direct involvement in the incident.
Delivering the verdict, Judge Malarvizhi said that such attacks on government establishments undermine public safety and order, and therefore require stringent punishment.
The court’s decision brings to a close the case which had raised major concerns over the security arrangements at one of the most secure places in Chennai.
–IANS
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