Coconut oil now ‘liquid gold’ in Kerala; bottles worth around Rs 18,000 stolen from shop

A theft involving 30 bottles of coconut oil and other items from a grocery shop in Aluva, near Kochi, has drawn public attention as coconut and coconut oil prices reach record highs in Kerala ahead of the Onam festival.

Failed entry attempt through the floor

According to a local media report on Thursday, the accused initially tried to drill through the concrete floor of the shop near the Thottumugham bridge. When this attempt failed, the individual reportedly broke the main lock to gain entry.

Focus on premium coconut oil

Once inside, the accused allegedly packed 30 bottles of premium coconut oil—each worth around Rs 600—into a sack. Other stolen items included a box of apples and ten packets of milk. The theft was discovered on Wednesday morning by the shop owner, Ayoob.

CCTV cables cut before escape

The accused is also suspected of cutting the CCTV cables installed inside the shop before fleeing, in an apparent attempt to destroy evidence.

No police complaint yet

The Aluva East police confirmed they were aware of the incident but stated they had not received a formal complaint to initiate an investigation.

Spike in coconut prices stirs political response

Coconuts now cost between Rs 80 and Rs 100 per kg, while coconut oil prices range from Rs 500 to Rs 600 per kg across Kerala. With coconut and coconut oil being staples in Kerala households, the price surge has strained budgets, especially ahead of Onam.

Government steps in with subsidised rates

The Kerala government has announced plans to distribute coconut oil at subsidised rates through ration shops during Onam. This theft is reportedly the latest in a series of similar incidents across the state, believed to be linked to the rising costs of coconut-related products.