A 69-year-old retired sub-inspector of police was arrested by the Madurai city police on Saturday for alleged sexual abuse of a 10-year-old girl. According to the police, R. Thiraviam, a resident of Kurinji Nagar in Aathikulam, took the girl to his home in the morning and assaulted her sexually. As the child reportedly screamed and ran out of the house, his neighbours surrounded Thiraviam’s house and informed the police. The man, who locked himself up in the home, was subsequently taken into custody by the police.

The girl’s family alleged that Thiraviam, who was acquainted with the girl, had called her to his home few times before.

A case was registered by All Women Police Station (North) under various provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, including those dealing with sexual assault and harassment. He was remanded to judicial custody after producing him before a magistrate.