Crime takes a beating in West Kochi

Interaction with residents has helped the police clear a crime-prone zone

Leading from the front: Assistant Commissioner of Police (Ernakulam) P.M. Varghese and Circle Inspector G. Venu visiting the residence of actor Mammootty in the city as part of the Janamaitri Suraksha Paddhati, in this file photo.

Every city has its weak spots. West Kochi could well be cited as one, as the area has long been notorious for drug peddling and petty crimes.

Not any longer. Ever since the local residents joined hands with the police, crime fighting has been effective in all sectors. “Interaction with the public was one of the reasons for the improved law and order situation here. As for drug peddling, we went for strict enforcement along with prompt reaction to information given by public. This has resulted in an increased flow of information regarding drug peddling,” said Sunil Jacob, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Mattancherry.

The police, on their part, took steps to cut the supply lines that brought drugs to the area. The supply lines often led to pockets in Orissa and reached West Kochi through Perumbavoor, Adimali and certain areas in Alappuzha.

Along with this, the police started a de-addiction centre and rehabilitation programme for drug addicts. The programme started with public participation helped in the police efforts to combat the drug menace.

The basement of the building for the centre has been completed near Jew Town and the building is expected to be commissioned soon.

“We can feel this change in the crime scene from the situation at Mattancherry police station, which used to be one of the busiest police stations. At present, officers can be seen working leisurely,” said K. M. Husain, president, West Kochi region of the Ernakulam District Residents Association Apex Council (EDRAAC).

Representatives of the residents association say that the police officers are responding well to issues raised during the monthly review meetings. This new-found confidence in the police prompts the public to come forward with information.

“There are many pockets in West Kochi, where police patrol jeeps cannot reach. These pockets used to be favourite spots for drug peddlers. The residents now alert the police about the presence of drug peddlers in their neighbourhood. This, along with prompt action from police, has helped addressing the issue,” said Mr. Husain. The police officers on beat duty have been accepted as part of the social network. As evidence, the police officials point out to the popularity of P.U. Haridas, head constable attached to Fort Kochi police station, among residents in his beat. He, along with Woman Police Constable M. Bindu, were selected as the best beat police personnel under the Janamaitri Suraksha Paddhathi.