Thiruvananthapuram, the new Mumbai for gangsters

Thiruvananthapuram is turning out to be a haven for anti-socials and mostly city gangsters. In the last two weeks, two murders shook the capital and that too, in the heart of the city. It is not just in city premises but the violence has also seeped into the rural terrains of the district. In Maranalloor, a gang went on rampage mode and destroyed as many as 15 vehicles parked on the roadside. The gang had the backing of a strong CPM leader and thus in all probability, no police officials would dare to rub shoulders with these rogues. These political connections have now turned into a boon for these gangs to do whatever they like at a whim.

In Thiruvananthapuram, the majority of the populace is law-abiding and polite. But the gangsters are having a free run on the other side, just for the incompetence of the police force who are known abettors of these gangs. Last night too, the goons went on a rampage at Kalladimukham. The attack was led by an accused in several criminal cases.

Two weeks ago, 19-year-old Arshad was hacked to death by a gang of drunkards in Karimadom Colony. The murder was carried out by a group in the same colony working in connection with the drug business. A week later, the accomplices of the accused in this case also threatened a woman with a knife. These gangs have no respect for the police force and don’t give two hoots about police repercussions. It will be only through strong legal measures that such criminals can be locked.

On the 7th of last month, Pradeep, a postal employee from Poonthura, was beaten to death by a six-member gang outside a bar in Poojappura. In September, two people were hacked to death by gangs on the road near the Kallumoodu bridge in Pettah. In March, there was an attack during the famous Attukal Pongala.

People inside Karimdaom opened up to the media about the illegal selling of drugs and the menace created by rogue gangs that are mostly youngsters. Even if caught, these people will come out on bail with assistance from city elites and will continue with their shenanigans again.

The police have informed that there have been 12 gang attacks in the capital this year. The planning of gang attacks is centred on certain colonies and bars. It is enough for the police to wake up and work to prevent this. The leaders of the party should also take a strong intervention to prevent the recurrence of incidents like Maranalloor.