A youth, with help from locals, overpowered a robber in Madhanandapuram, near Porur.
Police said that Dakshinamurthi, 36, of Tiruchi, along with a woman accomplice, entered the house of Nirmala, 56, who was living alone in Muthumari Amman Nagar in Madhandapuram, under the pretext of seeking to rent space on the first floor. On entering the house, they asked for water. When Ms. Nirmala went to the kitchen, he attacked her with a knife and forcefully removed her ear rings, causing her injuries.
Robber overpowered
On hearing her scream, Tamim Ansari, a neighbour, rushed to her rescue. He managed to overpower the robber after a struggle.
Other residents also joined Mr. Ansari in his efforts. Meanwhile, the woman who accompanied the accused managed to escape.
On receiving information, the Mangadu police rushed to the spot and took Dakshinamurthi into custody.
Ms. Nirmala is undergoing treatment. A hunt is on to nab the woman who accompanied Dakshinamurthi.