Police Reveal Tactics Behind 2024 Arrest of 2012 Homicide Accused

KANNUR, Sept 19 — In a detailed briefing, Kannur police officials outlined the strategies that led to the capture of C. Anand, the key suspect in the 2012 murder of Manikandan. The operation, codenamed "Operation Grip," combined intelligence gathering, clandestine surveillance, and coordinated action across Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

Investigators explained that Anand's avoidance of mobile devices forced teams to rely on human sources, checkpoint monitoring, and pattern analysis of his movements. Over several months, the special team, led by senior officers from the Narcotics Cell and the town ACP, tracked his occasional trips to a residence in Kangayamparayam, Coimbatore.

When the team confirmed his presence, a swift raid was executed, resulting in his arrest without any resistance. The operation was overseen by DIG K. Kartik IPS of the Kannur Range and city police commissioner Vijay Bharath Reddy IPS.

Authorities highlighted that the suspect had also been named in a separate 2021 murder case in Sulur, indicating a broader criminal profile. The successful arrest is being hailed as a milestone for inter‑state policing and a step toward delivering justice for the victim's family.