CHENNAI: A grocery shop owner suffered a fracture on his skull while his wife, who tried to protect hi,m sustained a knife injury after a four-member gang attacked them seeking extortion money in Padi Kalaivanar Nagar on Monday night.

According to the police, Vel Murugan (33) was preparing to shut his shop when the group approached him and demanded Rs 5,000 as 'mamool'. Before Vel Murugan could respond, the assailants reportedly snatched the padlock he was holding and struck him on the head with it, causing a skull fracture. They then proceeded to assault him.

Hearing Vel Murugan's cries, his wife, Tamil Mathi (29), rushed out of the shop and tried to stop them from attacking him. One of the attackers allegedly slashed her with a knife before the gang fled the scene.

The injured couple was rushed to the Government Kilpauk Medical College Hospital. After receiving treatment for their injuries, they have since been discharged and have returned home.

Following a formal complaint lodged by Vel Murugan, the JJ Nagar police registered a case and have initiated an investigation. The officials are currently reviewing footage from the CCTV cameras in the area to identify and apprehend the suspects.