Thrissur City: Cheruthuruthy police from Thrissur city reached the Maoist-inhabited forests of Odisha in search of the accused in a POCSO case. Mahadev Pani (29) of Moratiguda, a native of Karlagatti in Rayagada district, was arrested by Cheruthuruthy police after a week-long pursuit. Cheruthuruthy Inspector Bobby Varghese, along with Civil Police Officers Girish A., Jayakrishnan A., and Home Guard Janumon, embarked on their mission to Odisha with only one clue provided by Atijeevitha: the name “Pathun Uncle” from Rayagada in Odisha.
Upon reaching Rayagada, officials searched several locations in Gudari, Atijeevitha’s village, but found no information about “Pathun.” With no photo or phone number, the search initially seemed futile. The breakthrough came when they realized many locals spoke Malayalam. Disguising themselves, the officers interacted with Malayalam-speaking villagers and learned about the suspect’s brother.
However, Karlagatti, the area they needed to search, was a Maoist stronghold, prompting assistance from local police. Once the villagers realized the newcomers were Kerala police officers, the suspect’s brother went into hiding. After an exhaustive investigation, he was located, and valuable information about the accused was obtained. Despite the community’s lack of cooperation, the officers persevered and eventually apprehended the suspect.