11-Member Gang From Uttar Pradesh Arrested for Thefts

Kochi: An 11-member gang from Uttar Pradesh, which allegedly travelled to Keralam by air to commit thefts, has been arrested in a joint operation by the Thrissur, Kalamassery and Kannur police under the coordination of Kochi City Police.

The investigation gained a breakthrough after Rihaan (20) was caught while allegedly attempting a theft in Thrissur. Police subsequently learned that other members of the gang were in Kochi.

During a search at a lodge in Kalamassery, teams from Thrissur and Kalamassery police arrested Saifullah (31), Mohammed Farman Ansari (22), Suhail (22), Shakeeb (21) and Rihan Khan (22). Based on information obtained from them, Kannur police arrested Monish, Sameer, Mohammed Sahil, Mohammed Sajith Ansari and Mohsin, who were operating from Kannur.

All the accused are natives of Meerut in Uttar Pradesh.

Police said the gang travelled to Keralam by air and brought two-wheelers from Delhi by train for use in thefts and transportation. Cable cutters, keys, mobile phones, watches, cash and identity documents were recovered from the accused. Four two-wheelers allegedly used for the thefts were also taken into custody.

The gang allegedly targeted houses under construction, large generators fitted with copper strips and telephone exchange booths. They reportedly carried out the thefts while dressed as workers. The clothes allegedly used for the purpose were also recovered.

Some members of the gang are reportedly facing similar theft cases at the Thrikkakara police station. The investigation is continuing into thefts allegedly committed by the gang in other districts.

The operation was carried out by a team comprising Kochi DCP Arun Pavithran, ACP Bijoy Chandran and others, along with the Thrissur East Police, Kalamassery Shadow Team and Kannur City Crime Team.