Thiruvananthapuram: In a daring operation that tested both courage and ingenuity, the Thumba police successfully apprehended a fraud suspect involved in a Rs 10 lakh online trading scam, despite facing threats from the accused’s associates and local political interference. The case, initially bereft of evidence, came to light after a complaint was filed by a Kulathur resident who had been defrauded through a fake trading application.
Following the complaint, the Thumba police intensified their investigation, meticulously tracing digital and financial clues that eventually led them to Prakash Eerapa, a native of Karnataka. The suspect attempted to manipulate the investigating team by offering to repay the stolen Rs 10 lakh and promising additional inducements. When the officers resisted these pressures, the accused’s associates arrived, issuing direct threats to intimidate the police.
Recognizing the severity of the situation, the Thumba team coordinated with Karnataka police, who escorted the accused from Ashok Nagar to the Thumba station. However, the scene was fraught with tension: politicians and local goons awaited the arrival, while even the local SHO reportedly attempted to influence the Kerala officers. Assessing the escalating danger, the police tactically removed the accused from the station for a medical examination. Outside, a hostile mob attempted to block their path, prompting the team to alert the police control room, which managed to disperse the crowd through strategic signaling.
Complicating matters further, the magistrate required for custody procedures had already left, and attempts to obtain his contact number failed. Fearing that the accused could be forcibly seized by the mob, the Thumba investigation team acted swiftly, taking him to the nearby Legal Services Authority building. Under the supervision of the Authority, they safely transported the accused to the magistrate’s residence, even as his goons trailed the convoy.
Despite the magistrate initially deferring action to the following day, the officers highlighted the imminent threat to their lives and the suspect’s safety. The magistrate then issued the necessary orders, calling in security personnel to disperse the crowd outside. With the situation finally stabilized, the Kerala police safely returned the accused to the state, completing an operation marked by courage, strategic planning, and determination.
The Thumba police’s handling of the case has drawn attention for their steadfastness under extreme pressure, demonstrating a commitment to upholding the law even in the face of direct threats and attempts at intimidation.