KANNUR: Following an intense, multi-day statewide search, history-sheeter Arjun Ayanki was taken into custody by the Kerala Police early Sunday morning from an apartment in Kannur Town.
Auto Driver’s Alert Tip-Off Leads to Arrest
​The breakthrough came after Ayanki arrived in Kannur on Saturday afternoon and hired an auto-rickshaw to reach a lawyer’s residential flat. Becoming suspicious of his passenger, the alert auto-rickshaw driver immediately tipped off local authorities.
Police quickly cross-referenced CCTV footage around the area to confirm his identity. Under the direct supervision of Kannur City Police Commissioner Vijay Bharat Reddy, a special police force cordoned off the building around 2:30 AM and apprehended Ayanki as he attempted to flee.
Background & Charges
​The police crackdown intensified after Ayanki issued derogatory voice clips and open threats against the Kothamangalam and Oonnukal Station House Officers via Instagram and Facebook. Despite the Kerala High Court dismissing his anticipatory bail application, Ayanki remained in hiding while posting videos daring the police force and targeting Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala.
​Prompted by his public defiance, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed to track him down. Prior to Ayanki’s arrest, the police had already detained his brother, Akhil Ayanki, along with several key associates for harboring him and aiding his escape.
Arjun Ayanki previously came under severe public scrutiny for his alleged involvement in the 2021 Karipur gold smuggling ring and faces multiple charges across various stations, including kidnapping, attempted murder, and criminal intimidation.
