In a significant crackdown, the Kallambalam police in Thiruvananthapuram have successfully arrested a man allegedly involved in the large-scale theft of vital construction materials designated for National Highway (NH) development projects. The arrest follows a complaint filed after materials went missing from storage sites on New Year's Eve.
Massive Theft on New Year's Eve
The incident came to light after a highway construction contracting company reported a major theft that occurred on December 31. According to the police complaint, substantial quantities of construction essentials were stolen from multiple storage locations linked to the ongoing NH development work. The stolen cache, with a total weight of approximately 2,500 kilograms, included crucial items like:
- Steel pipes
- Iron rods
- Iron sheets
These materials were stored at key project sites in the Navayikkulam, 28th Mile, and Thattupalam areas, highlighting the brazen nature of the crime that targeted infrastructure development.
Police Investigation Leads to Arrest and Recovery
Acting swiftly on the complaint, the Kallambalam police launched a detailed probe. Their investigation traced the stolen construction materials to a scrap shop located near Paravur. It was here that the accused had allegedly transported the high-value items intending to sell them.
The police have identified the arrested individual as Vinod (37), a resident of Kadakkode. Following the trail, authorities successfully recovered all the stolen materials from the scrap shop and seized them as case evidence. This recovery is crucial for the ongoing national highway project, preventing potential delays and financial loss.
Judicial Custody and Case Proceedings
After his arrest on Monday, the accused, Vinod, was presented before the local court. The court has ordered him to be remanded in judicial custody for 14 days as the investigation continues. This arrest underscores the serious view taken by authorities towards crimes that disrupt critical public infrastructure projects like national highway construction, which are vital for regional connectivity and economic growth.
The case highlights the challenges of securing construction sites and materials for large-scale public works. The prompt action by the Kallambalam police has not only led to an arrest but also ensured the recovery of stolen property, sending a strong message against such illicit activities.
