Five inmates of a Social Defence Department-run Protective Home for women escaped last night after assaulting the warden.

According to police, the home in Sanganur in the city has nine inmates, most of them being involved in flesh trade and criminal activities.

In a surprise move, five of the inmates suddenly attacked the warden last night and decamped with Rs 5,000 and two cell phones, they said.

Police began investigation on the basis of a complaint lodged by the District Child Protection Officer this morning.