Thiruvananthapuram, 09 August (H.S.):Kerala Police have launched an intensified statewide crackdown on gangsters following the arrest of Arjun Ayanki, with ADGP (Law and Order) P Vijayan warning that those attempting to challenge the law or glorify criminal activity on social media would face stringent action.

Vijayan said Ayanki had allegedly attempted to evade the police using technology, including Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), but investigators successfully tracked him down. He said nobody would be allowed to take the law into their own hands or openly challenge the police in Kerala.

Police are examining the possibility of invoking the Kerala Anti-Social Activities (Prevention) Act (KAAPA) against Ayanki, besides exploring other legal options. Several cases are already pending against him.

The ADGP said police had prepared a list of criminals considered a threat to people's lives and property and were planning a coordinated operation when Ayanki allegedly challenged the force.

Around 55 people, including some of Ayanki's associates, had been taken into custody by 10 pm on Saturday as part of the drive. Police expected the number of suspected gangsters detained across the state to cross 100 by Sunday morning.

Vijayan said particular attention would be paid to reel gangsters who use social media to project a criminal image. Police will scrutinise accounts of those displaying weapons, glorifying violence or staging events such as birthday celebrations in which cakes are cut with swords.

Financial networks behind criminal gangs will also be investigated. Those found sponsoring or financing criminal activities could be made accused if evidence establishes their involvement.

Cyber experts are meanwhile examining social media posts attributed to Ayanki to determine whether he personally uploaded them. Vijayan said there was no information so far suggesting political protection for Ayanki, but police would investigate all possible angles.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman