Kerala Police steps up efforts to nab remaining 'Kuruva' theft gang members

Kochi: The Kerala Police has launched an intensive manhunt for the remaining members of the notorious 18-member 'Kuruva' theft gang, who reportedly arrived in Kerala with plans to execute major heists. Authorities have already arrested two suspected gang members in Kundannoor here, though several others remain at large. The police are concentrating their search on coastal areas and railway tracks, where identifying the gang members is proving to be a challenge.

A gang, including five men, two women and one child, were taken into custody at Kundannoor. After a preliminary interrogation, others except the two were released. The police have collected fingerprints from the suspects, which will help confirm whether they have been involved in other criminal activities. It is believed that those released are relatives of the arrested gang members, who are suspected to be part of the 'Kuruva' gang.

The police have also gathered intelligence suggesting that the gang members had been operating under the guise of fishermen, staying along the coast near Kochi. Investigations are underway to determine any possible links between the arrested members and a separate group from Karnataka that has also been active in the region. However, the latter group is not believed to be connected to the 'Kuruva' gang.

Authorities are particularly concerned about the possibility that the remaining gang members may be hiding in isolated locations, such as abandoned buildings, overpasses or dense forests, where they can easily evade detection. Special police teams have been deployed to conduct surveillance in these areas and monitor potential escape routes.

The 'Kuruva' gang

The 'Kuruva' gang, known for being well-armed, is believed to be based in the Tiruchirappalli region of Tamil Nadu, specifically in the notorious 'Ramji Nagar' area, often referred to as ‘Thirittu Gramam’ (meaning 'Looters’ Village'). However, the gang is not made up of members from a single village, and some individuals have reportedly come from other towns in Tamil Nadu, including Coimbatore.

In addition to theft, police have received information suggesting that the gang may have been involved in other illicit activities. Investigations are ongoing to determine if the gang has expanded its criminal operations beyond theft.

While the installation of CCTV cameras in and around Kochi has made it more difficult for criminals to operate openly, the 'Kuruva' gang has so far managed to avoid capture. Nevertheless, with the latest arrests, the police remain optimistic that they will soon apprehend the rest of the gang.

The recent surge in thefts across the Kochi city area has prompted the police to step up their efforts, questioning suspects and intensifying surveillance. Initial investigations indicate that the 'Kuruva' gang was not involved in a recent robbery in Paravur, although the investigation is still ongoing.

The search for the remaining members of the gang continues, with police urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.