Gangsters on rise again, Chennai police on high alert

Chennai: With three murders taking place in a span of four days at Mylapore alone and all of them involving gangs, there is a fear among people and suspicion among police personnel that gangsters are raising their ugly heads again.

Thanks to a string of tough actions in the past, the bloody saga of rowdyism was brought to control in the metropolis. And now, following a fresh set of crimes, police are once again planning strong action against gangs.

On 19 October, Siva (29), a car driver who had cases against him, was hacked to death by a seven-member gang near the Mandaveli bus depot.

Two days later, Vijay (25), who was popularly known in the locality as ‘Rider’ Vijay for his love for two-wheelers, was murdered near Santhome traffic signal.

He was killed after a fight broke out after Vijay created ruckus at a wedding reception at a community hall near Santhome church. He was chased and hacked by an armed seven-member gang.

In another gruesome murder, Congress functionary A K Abbas was hacked to death at Dr Besant Road, Ice House. police said they are taking stringent preventive measures to avoid any more violent incidents.

An Inspector of police in Mylapore district says, “Six years ago, gangster activity was high in Mylapore and it was put to end later. After the recent three murders, we have taken history-sheeters in the area into custody. Five regular offenders were brought to the station after these incidents. We are conducting inquiries with them.”

But a senior official claimed that each murder must be looked as isolated cases.

“Vijay’s murder was due to sudden provocation. Siva was an active rowdy in Koyambedu until 2015. He was killed due to previous enmity. He is accused of even influencing witnesses in murder cases.”

Abbas too was also killed due to previous enmity. He was charged with holding Kangaroo Courts. Sources say, he was involved in vandalising the Ice House police station during the Jallikattu protests.

A private detective Varadarajan said, “A murder has to be analysed. If it is because of sudden provocation or previous enmity, the police cannot be held responsible. But in these three murders the crime was carried out by hired professionals.”

A resident of Mylapore said, “All the murders took place at night and in public view. One of the reasons is the wine shops here are open 24 hours and a crowd can be spotted any time. Availability of ganja is another reason. Most of the assailants were said to be under the influence of it.”