In a decisive move against anti-social elements, the Ernakulam Rural Police have externed a habitual offender from their jurisdictional limits using the stringent Kerala Anti-Social Activities (Prevention) Act, commonly known as Kaapa.
Who is the Offender and What Led to the Action?
The action was directed against Chalakal Manaaf, a 37-year-old resident of Keezhmadu. Police records indicate that Manaaf has a long history of involvement in serious criminal activities. His alleged crimes span a spectrum including attempted murder, robbery, and multiple cases of assault.
The final trigger for invoking the powerful Kaapa provisions occurred in August. According to the police report, Manaaf parked his car in a manner that deliberately blocked the entrance to a house in Keezhmadu. When the residents questioned him about the obstruction, he responded with threats and verbal abuse.
The Final Confrontation at the Police Station
Following the complaint, the Aluva police summoned both parties to the station to resolve the dispute. However, the situation escalated dramatically. At the police station itself, Manaaf is accused of threatening and abusing not only the original complainant but also her husband. When police officers on duty stepped in to control the situation, he allegedly turned aggressive and attacked them.
This brazen act of violence within the police station premises underscored his persistent threat to public order and safety, leaving the authorities with no option but to pursue the strongest legal recourse available.
The Official Externment Order
Based on a comprehensive report submitted by Ernakulam Rural District Police Chief M Hemalatha, the formal externment order was issued. The authority to pass such an order under Kaapa rests with senior officers, and in this case, it was Ernakulam Range DIG Satheesh Bino who signed the directive.
The order legally mandates that Chalakal Manaaf must remain outside the jurisdictional limits of the Ernakulam Rural Police for a specified period. This measure is designed to prevent him from continuing his alleged anti-social activities in the area and to provide relief to the local community.
The use of the Kaapa Act highlights the police's strategy to curb the influence of repeat offenders who are frequently involved in crimes that disrupt public peace. This externment serves as a stern warning and a preventive step to maintain law and order in the region.
