Thiruvananthapuram: The latest data released by Kerala’s Intelligence Department says that there are 4,500 goons in the state. The department further states that 1,300 of these history-sheeters are currently active and have over 25 cases registered against them.
The goons are accused in cases such a murder, murder attempt, creating ruckus, robbery, contract or ‘quotation’ jobs, extortion, sand-soil mafia activities and drug trafficking.
Incidentally, even though the state police chief had issued several orders to arrest these goons, there has been no action from his subordinates. Local police officers cite their heavy workload as the reason for their failure to chase these habitual criminals. Moreover, the proximity of goondas to local political leaders makes the job of the police difficult. Another hurdle faced by the local police is the reluctance of the top officers to invoke the Kerala Anti-Social (Prevention) Activities Act (KAAPA) against the goons and keep them in prison.
Data mismatch
Meanwhile, data with the State Crime Records Bureau says that there are only 850 active goondas in Kerala. The bureau adds that 150 criminal gangs operate in the state.
Curiously, the District Special Branch offices under the respective District Police Chiefs have different figures on goons.
Security for retired officers
Goons are a threat not only to public but also to police officers who retired from service. In fact, over 20 former officers, including two who held the superintendent of police rank, have been provided security based on applications submitted by them and intelligence reports. In addition, family members of two officials are given security.
Top goon in capital
The highest number of cases – 38 - has been registered against a goon in Thiruvananthapuram district. The number of active history-sheeters in various districts is: Thiruvananthapuram City – 100, Rural – 150; Kollam – 50, Alappuzha – 300; Ernakulam Rural – 130; Kottayam – 45; Palakkad – 100 and Kasaragod – 60. In other districts, the numbers are far less. Interestingly, crimes are carried out mostly by outsiders in Ernakulam City.
A large number of these goons are aged below 30 years.
The authorities have prepared another list of goons having less than 10 cases against them. These criminals take up quotation jobs and hand over their execution to the active goondas, said officials.
