New Delhi, Aug 21 (IANS) The Delhi police have arrested a 21-year-old man on suspicion of kidnapping a 12-year-old girl in Samaypur Badli area, the police said on Wednesday.

Police said that the accused, identified as Vimlesh, pursuing graduation and preparing for competitive exams, was caught by the locals and handed over to the police.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Outer North) Gaurav Sharma said that the man was spotted by a passerby holding the girl.

"Locals informed the police on suspicion. The public had beaten up the accused and were holding him when we reached there. The parents of the minor were also present," said Sharma.

Police said that Vimlesh has no previous criminal history. During interrogation he claimed that he found the girl roaming on the road and he had taken her with him with the intention of dropping her home.

A case under relevant sections has been registered and further investigation is underway.