“All necessary steps are being taken to prevent crimes,” declared Tamil Nadu Director General of Police (DGP) Shankar Jiwal, while addressing the media today.
Reaffirming the state’s unwavering commitment to maintaining law and order, the DGP detailed a series of recent police operations that led to the capture of long-absconding terrorists, including a key figure in the 1998 Coimbatore serial blast case.
In a significant development, DGP Jiwal announced the arrest of Taylor Raja, a prime accused in the Coimbatore blasts, who had been on the run for nearly 30 years. The Tamil Nadu Anti-Terrorism Squad tracked him down in Karnataka, where he had been living discreetly. In coordinated efforts, three other terrorists, who had also been evading arrest for several years, were apprehended from different states. These individuals had been operating small businesses like textile and grocery shops to maintain a low profile and avoid police scrutiny.
Commending the effective collaboration between the Anti-Terrorism Unit, Coimbatore Police, and law enforcement in Andhra Pradesh, Jiwal emphasized that such results are proof of the department’s relentless pursuit of justice and public safety. He assured that the police force remains vigilant and proactive, continuously deploying strategies to prevent criminal activities and ensure the safety of all citizens across Tamil Nadu.
The DGP also underscored the importance of intelligence-sharing and technological upgrades in strengthening the state’s security framework. “We are enhancing surveillance, improving inter-state coordination, and using data analytics to track and prevent criminal networks. Modern policing tools, including facial recognition and digital monitoring systems, are being deployed to tighten security across vulnerable zones,” he said. He stressed that the police force is not just reactive but is increasingly focusing on preemptive action to curb organized crime and extremist activities.
Responding to questions about public safety, DGP Jiwal assured that community policing initiatives are being strengthened to foster trust and cooperation between citizens and law enforcement. He highlighted the importance of public participation in ensuring a crime-free society and urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities. “Tamil Nadu remains one of the safest states in the country, and we are determined to maintain this status through sustained efforts and public engagement,” he concluded.