‘Pennyless’: Wanted ciminal Arjun Ayanki solicits legal funds online; cops authorised to use force
Kannur (Kerala): Despite an extensive police manhunt, elusive Arjun Ayanki continues to post on social media while on the run. In his latest update, Ayanki has posted an appeal requesting financial contributions to cover his legal expenses. The request was shared as an Instagram story complete with a QR code for donations.
In his post, Ayanki wrote, “Please support by generously donating to the case fund. Enemies are falsely claiming that I am involved in gold smuggling and am a billionaire.” He set the post to a popular Malayalam song containing the lyrics “Naya paisa illa, kayiloru naya paisa illa...” (I don't have a single penny in hand).
In addition, Ayanki commented under news posts claiming that he was currently sitting under a tree at Thrissur Round.
Police intelligence indicates Ayanki moved from Malappuram to Palakkad, and subsequently reached Thrissur. Authorities retrieved CCTV footage showing him crossing the Panniyankara toll plaza. Reports placed him near the Thekkinkadu Maithanam area in Thrissur, prompting extensive searches across key transport hubs, including the railway station.
During these search operations, police detained Ayanki's brother Akhil, near the Vadakkunnathan Temple premises. He is currently being interrogated to ascertain Ayanki's whereabouts.
Meanwhile, Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala, who arrived in Thrissur, addressed media personnel stating, “No criminal will escape. The police know how to deal with anti-social elements.” Reports indicate the Home Department has issued clear directives to law enforcement to capture Ayanki promptly.
Police officers have been authorised to use force, including weapons if necessary, given the circumstances. City Police Commissioner guidelines direct officers to block Ayanki's vehicle safely if he attempts a high-speed escape, permitting all necessary measures to apprehend him. Authorities also suspect Ayanki may have already crossed the Thrissur district border, leading to intensified, parallel search operations in Palakkad.