Robbery and disaster tourism surge in Wayanad's landslide-affected areas

Meppadi: In the aftermath of the devastating landslide in Wayanad, incidents of theft and disaster tourism have emerged as major challenges for rescue operations and local residents in Meppadi.

It is revealed that individuals posing as rescue workers have been implicated in thefts within the region. Moreover, the influx of tourists, including from neighbouring states, has sparked concerns. 

Some visitors have been entering landslide-affected areas solely to capture videos for social media, potentially hindering ongoing rescue efforts. In response, authorities have imposed stringent restrictions on public access to safeguard rescue operations' efficiency.

Thefts or attempted thefts have been reported in many residential buildings remaining in the landslide-hit area. An attempted robbery took place at the house of a local resident named Ibrahim in Chooralmala town on Saturday. 

After the landslide, Ibrahim and his family left their home and are in a relief camp. When Ibrahim returned home to feed his cats on Saturday morning, nothing was wrong. However, the theft had allegedly taken place sometime after he left the house for a rescue operation in Mundakkai. There was also a burglary attempt at the house of a resident named Salim near the village office area. 

Meanwhile, the rescue workers are handing over all the valuables found during the search to the authorities. The police had shared posts on social media warning against disaster tourism.