Kannur: Arjun Ayanki, who has openly challenged the police and Home Department, has once again come into the spotlight in Kerala. But who is Arjun Ayanki?

Originally from Kapparikkadavu in Azhikode, Ayanki began his political career as a DYFI unit secretary. He later gained prominence on social media as a CPM cyber warrior. By challenging and threatening political opponents online, Ayanki built a sizeable following on social media.

However, his activities later extended beyond politics, and he emerged as a key figure in a criminal network.

Karipur gold smuggling case

Ayanki first gained notoriety in connection with the Karipur gold smuggling case. He was allegedly associated with gangs involved in intercepting gold smuggled into Kerala from abroad. He is a key accused in the Ramanattukara gold heist case, in which five people were killed, an incident that shocked the country.

He also faces cases related to an alleged attempt to kill members of a gold-smuggling gang by ramming them with a vehicle, as well as gold-smuggling cases registered by the Customs Department.

As political conflicts in Kannur declined, some quotation gangs reportedly shifted their focus to gold smuggling, creating new avenues for Ayanki and others operating in the network.

Expelled from DYFI

After Ayanki's alleged criminal activities came to light, the DYFI expelled him from the organisation. Although the CPM leadership has repeatedly clarified that the party has no links with cyber or quotation gangs, social media groups supporting Ayanki have continued to provide him with a protective shield.

More recently, a case was registered against Ayanki for allegedly threatening the Kothamangalam CI. He has now openly challenged the police and the Home Department, declaring, "Show me if you can catch me."

The Home Department has formed a special investigation team to apprehend him. However, despite being on the run, Ayanki continues to challenge the police by regularly posting photographs and videos on social media.

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