A series of murders in a span of a few weeks has cast a shadow on the otherwise improved law and order situation in the town and suburban areas.
In the last six weeks, around nine persons have been killed in crimes related to gang wars and personal animosity, raising a question mark on the tall claims of the government in bringing back the law and order under control after assuming office.
Though to the credit of the police, the culprits have been nabbed in majority of the cases, but the spate in murders has brought back memories of previous N.R Congress regime, which had a poor track record on the law and order front.
The latest murder occurred on Sunday night when an anti-social element was done to death by a rival gang.
Jagan, a key functionary of Bharatiya Janata Party in its Villianur unit, was intercepted by a motorbike-borne gang at Villianur and hacked him to death. Hours after the murder, the police arrested six persons in connection with the incident.
Gang rivalry
According to police, gang rivalry seemed to be the motive behind the murder. It was just a few days ago, a functionary of the N.R Congress was murdered at Thirubhuvanai.
“Certainly, it is a wake up call to the police. A series of murders in a short period is a matter of concern to all. The police should be more proactive in dealing with anti-social elements,” said a trader on Jawaharlal Nehru Street.
State president of BJP, R.V. Swaminathan, at a press conference on Monday criticised the ruling Congress for its handling of law and order situation. A sense of fear has gripped the people after the recent murders, he added.
When contacted Director General of Police S.K. Gautam said murders in a quick succession were a cause of concern. However, he said some of the murders were result of personal animosity and family issues.
Police promise action
“We don’t know what is in the mind of people and certain crimes cannot be prevented unless they inform us about the threat. We have been doing foot patrolling and arresting anti-social elements. We have resorted to externing rowdy elements and will continue with the proactive steps,” he said.
He said the police have been quick enough to arrest culprits involved in majority of the cases. “Policing is a continuing process and we will take necessary steps,” he assured.
