Kochi: Kannur native Arjun Aayanki who went into hiding after the Ramanattukara gold smuggling incident has been reported to be the key conspirator in the case. The customs which submitted the report at the economic offenses court affirmed this. The statement given by Muhammed Shafeek, who was nabbed at the airport, said Arjun Aayanki is the key person who conspired this and he was given a flight ticket and Rs 40000. The gold was handed over to Shafeek in a box by a person named Salim in Dubai.

Arjun had called up Shafeek before departure and wanted him to change dress after arrival. Customs feel that Arjun Aayanka was aware of small gangs’ bid to steal the gold and hence had directed Shafeek to change his attire. Arjun Aayanka had planned to receive the gold from Shafeek at the airport but he was nabbed by Customs.

Arjun Aayanka is a native of Azhikode in Kannur. Customs assistant commissioner E Vikas-led team visited his house on Wednesday and conducted inspection for over 2 hours. Though Arjun was present in his house till Wednesday morning, he later left and went underground.