Kannur (Kerala) | A shed at a shrimp farm belonging to former CPI(M) leader T Purushothaman was allegedly torched at Payyannur in Kannur district, police said on Thursday.

This is the second attack on Purushothaman's property after his car was partially torched following the Assembly election in April this year.

Purushothaman is a close associate of MLA V Kunhikrishnan, who was expelled from the CPI(M) after raising allegations of financial irregularities against party leaders in Payyannur.

According to police, the shed was set on fire during the night and Purushothaman discovered the incident on Thursday morning.

The shrimp farm is located at Kandankali near Payyannur.

Police said the shed was fully damaged in the fire.

Fishing nets, feed, baskets and equipment used for shrimp farming were gutted, while the doors and furniture of the shed were also burnt.

Speaking to reporters, Purushothaman alleged that CPI(M) workers were behind the attack, claiming it was linked to the party's defeat in the Assembly election.

He also alleged that people who supported Kunhikrishnan have been facing threats.

Purushothaman said workers usually stay at the shed and the incident occurred when they were not present.

Payyannur police have launched an investigation after receiving a complaint from Purushothaman.

Kunhikrishnan recently filed a complaint to the District Police Chief about threats to people supporting him.

Earlier, after his car was partially torched at his residence in April this year, five CPI(M) workers were arrested by the police.

CPI(M) had suffered the defeat at Payyannur in the assembly election as th constituency is considered a stronghold of the left party.