Kannur: No one like Arjun Ayanki will be allowed to challenge the police, ADGP P Vijayan said. The impression that Ayanki had repeatedly challenged the police was merely his own perception, he said. The heroic image such individuals receive on social media is only temporary.

The police had begun taking legal steps to bring Ayanki under control as soon as they realised that he believed he had grown beyond a certain limit, Vijayan said. He added that the action against Ayanki was initiated on the instructions of the Home Minister.

While Ayanki's anticipatory bail plea was pending before the court, the police had been waiting and following the usual procedures. After the court rejected his bail plea, he went into hiding, following which the police intensified efforts to apprehend him. He will have to face punishment for the offences he committed, the ADGP said.

Challenging the police is tantamount to challenging society itself. The police warned that those who issue challenges against the force on social media, which is responsible for protecting society and safeguarding people's lives and property, as well as those who encourage such posts through likes and comments, are also under surveillance.

Although Ayanki kept changing locations while in hiding, the police were continuously monitoring him. The Home Minister had instructed the police to ensure that his arrest was carried out fully in accordance with law, without any human rights violations or unlawful methods. Ayanki was apprehended accordingly, Vijayan said. He also clarified that the decision to shoot Ayanki was not taken by the Kerala Police.

Operation Grip will continue. The police feel that no Ayanki-like figure who challenges society should be allowed to emerge. Gangs are attempting to mislead young people by flaunting their groups on social media and celebrating birthday parties in grand fashion. The police said attempts to gain influence in society through such displays of ‘heroism’ pose a threat to public safety and will not be tolerated under any circumstances.