An intruder who allegedly behaved in erratic manner, posing serious threat to the staff and students of a private school, was arrested by the Alipiri police in Tirupati on Thursday.

The incident happened at Sri Vijetha school in the city’s Akkarampalli locality, where a person identified as Chinnam Srinivas (54), who hails from Badvel town in Kadapa district and currently resides in Mysuru, reportedly entered the premises under the pretext of enquiring details about admission and fee structure.

According to the police, Srinivas allegedly sneaked to the second floor of the school building, entered a classroom and poured petrol from a bottle across the room. He then threatened the staff to move away by taking out an iron hammer which he had carried with him. The agitated staff and scared students witnessed the tense moments, forcing the school management to alert the Alipiri police.

Meanwhile, the police spoke with Srinivas and took him into custody before shifting him to the station.

It was learnt that Srinivas had suffered financial losses in a business partnership and sought legal help. In view of his ‘perceived injustice’ in the case, he thought of attracting the attention of the society and the media, and thus enacted the drama, the police said.

On finding that Srinivas had previously attempted suicide by cutting his throat in front of the Mysore High Court, the police launched a full-fledged investigation into his financial records as well as his mental status. Superintendent of Police (SP) L. Subbarayudu appreciated the team for their timely response, professional handling and prompt action in securing the accused to avert an untoward incident.