In a shocking incident of moral policing, a 49-year-old man was stripped, tied to a pole and brutally beaten in Azhikode market area of Kerala's Thrissur district.

The victim has been identified as Salaam. Police said that the incident took place on Saturday night at around 9.30 pm. The horrific crime was committed by five men after the victim offered job to one of the accused.

Salam was beaten up in public and he was untied after police arrived at the spot. He was rushed to the nearest hospital.

The main accused has been identified as Babu. Police said that all the five accused are absconding.

The accused not only thrashed the man they clicked pictures and circulated them on Whatsapp. Incidentally, Babu got into a heated argument with his wife following which he beat her up. Babu, who did not approve the victim offering his wife a job, ganged up with his friends and assaulted Salam.

Police have initiated a probe and launched a manhunt to track the accused.