The police on Tuesday completed a major combing operation in the city, nabbing nearly 1,500 people ranging from those wanted for petty offences to some against whom arrest warrants were long pending.
The drive was conducted as part of the City Police’s efforts to increase security during the Christmas-New Year season.
The 11-hour drive, which began at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, was under the supervision of Deputy Commissioner (Law and Order) Ajeetha Begum, following the instructions of H. Venkatesh, City Police Commissioner.
It saw 271 accused, against whom arrest warrants were pending, being apprehended. This included 12 major absconders too. The drive was conducted after sealing all entry and exit points to the city. It was part of the preparations to ensure a peaceful Christmas in the city.
Absconders held during the drive included Vizhinjam residents Shammi, 34; Raveendran, 74; and Saju, 25. The Poojappura police arrested Rajesh, 25, from Peyad; and Anudas, 21, from Kundamankadavu who are accused in cases of chain-snatching.
The Thumba police arrested Shajikumar, Santhosh, 35; Abheesh, 26; and Mohammed Ismail, 19; for allegedly attacking a group travelling in an autorickshaw and snatching a child’s gold chain at Akkulam. As many as 70 people were arrested on charges of drunk driving and 210 for creating nuisance in public places in an inebriated condition.
In addition, action was taken against 1,281 others for violating various provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act. As part of the combing, lodges and labour camps which housed migrant workers were checked.