Tamil Nadu, Chennai: Following the successful apprehension of an ATM heist gang in Namakkal, thanks to a critical tip-off from the Kerala Police, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has called for stronger coordination between police forces across state borders.
He highlighted the increasing threat of inter-state crimes, including drug trafficking and cybercrime, and urged collaborative efforts to enhance public safety and dismantle criminal networks. “This gang had carried out similar thefts in various parts of Kerala and had fled from Thrissur. The Tamil Nadu Police swiftly alerted the relevant states. I commend both the Tamil Nadu and Kerala Police for their prompt actions. This successful operation is a prime example of the kind of coordination and proactive measures that these conferences aim to promote,” said Stalin.
Speaking at the Southern Regional Police Coordination Committee (SRPCC) meeting, Stalin underscored the complexities of cybercrime and the importance of inter-state collaboration in addressing it. “Tamil Nadu leads in responding quickly to cybercrime complaints, but often catching cybercriminals requires cross-border operations, which presents significant challenges,” he said.
In 2023 alone, 1,390 cases in Tamil Nadu involved criminals from other states, with many apprehended within the state. Stalin also expressed concern over the rise of “cyber slavery,” where young people are being exploited and forced into cybercrime.
“Many of our youth have been physically and mentally abused by cybercriminals operating from other countries. It is crucial that we strengthen our coordinated efforts to address these emerging threats,” he added. The Chief Minister further outlined Tamil Nadu’s two-pronged approach to combating the sale and distribution of ganja, focusing on strict enforcement measures such as asset seizures, freezing bank accounts, sealing properties, imposing heavy fines, and enforcing severe penalties.
The state also places a strong emphasis on awareness campaigns, particularly around educational institutions, to prevent drug use. “Tamil Nadu Police is leading the way in taking economic action against drug-related crimes, thereby weakening their financial foundation. However, these criminal networks often operate across multiple states,” Stalin pointed out.
He stressed the need to leverage modern technology, such as Automatic Number Plate Recognition systems, advanced cameras, and other surveillance tools at border check posts, to detect smuggled goods, illegal vehicles, and criminals. The event saw participation from senior officers, including Tamil Nadu’s Additional Chief Secretary of Home Dheeraj Kumar, Tamil Nadu DGP Shankar Jiwal, Karnataka DGP Alok Mohan, Kerala DGP Shaik Darvesh Saheb, Shalini Singh from Puducherry, Dwaraka Tirumala Rao from Andhra Pradesh, and officers from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Following the inauguration, the officers visited key landmarks in the city, including the Kalaignar Centenary Park and the Kalaignar Memorial.
