Tension following clash between rowdy groups

Chennai, Sep 17 (UNI) Tension prevailed at suburban Red Hills following a clash between two group of rowdies that culminated in arson and violence late last night.

At least two cars were damaged and a two-wheeler was torched by the warring groups, resulting in the arrest of 30 people from both the sides.

A group rivalry existed between one Natarajan and Karunakaran, a DMK functionary and a close associate of notorious gangster Vellai Ravi.

Karunakaran was allegedly behind the abduction of Natarajan's relatives a few months back by Vellai Ravi.

Natarajan and ten of his supporters were having a chat near a temple last night, when Karunakaran's brother Sekar passed them.

An argument between them soon snowballed into a group clash as Karunakaran and his supporters, armed with wooden logs and iron rods, attacked Natarajan and his men.

Both the groups fought a pitched battle during which two cars belonging to Natarajan and his friends were damaged. Two motorbikes also became the target and one of the vehicle was torched.

Police pickets were posted in the area to prevent any untoward incident.

Based on preliminary investigation, police arrested 30 people in connection with the incident.

UNI GV SJ RL CS1755