The Central Crime Branch of the city police on Friday apprehended Praveen Chathangathodi (52), Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Sun Network, on the charges of harassment of a former woman employee, following a complaint registered by her.

CCB sources said that Praveen, who is also in-charge of Surya TV, the Malayalam channel of the Sun group, was accused of sexually harassing a woman programme producer five months ago.

He also transferred her to Kochi, following which she resigned her job. She later approached the Chennai city police with a complaint few months ago that Praveen repeatedly harassed her.

She also alleged that he was holding back her dues, including salary and Provident Fund amount, totalling Rs. 35 lakh, sources added.

Cops picked up Praveen from his Anna Nagar residence early on Friday and arrested him shortly after interrogation, sources added.