Happy season for robbers in Tripunithura

The increasing number of cases of robbery registered during monsoons in the last three years, reveals an odd connection between the season and cases of thefts in the area. A total of 37 incidents of robbery were recorded in 2011, while 2010 witnessed 32 cases.

The residents and the police have joined hands to face the challenge this monsoon. According to the Hill Palace Janamythri Police, the decision was taken in the wake of increase in the number of thefts during the season. Hill Palace Circle Inspector Baiju Poulose said that, so far, most of the theft cases were reported in June and July. He also said that adequate measures will be taken to prevent any untoward situation during this monsoon. He said that once the monsoon sets in, the area is considered to be a good hiding place for the thieves. “Tripunithura has a vast rural area to hide and also has a railway station for an easy escape after theft. If a theft happens within the Kochi city limits, the culprits can be easily trapped by closing down of the existing routes. However, in the case of Tripunithura, it is not possible,” he said.

As part of the preventive measures, Baiju said that night patrolling in association with residents associations will be started in the Tripunithura limits. “We will convene regular meetings of residents associations. Separate security units will be formed with the participation of the residents associations. These units will be led by police at night,” he said.

He said that also the security guards working in the private companies will be called in to help in tackling crime in the area. “The private security guards will be given instructions to alert police. They will be given SIM cards under the closed group service communication system, so that they can alert police if  any untoward incidents come to their notice,” he said.