Chennai: Facing flak for a spurt in murders and grave crimes across the state, director general of police Shankar Jiwal has issued a circular warning officers that they would face action if they failed to take severe measures against anti-social elements and thugs in their jurisdiction. The circular cited the murder in Tirunelveli of a retired SI, Zakir Hussain, on Tuesday, a couple of months after he lodged a complaint apprehending a threat to his life. The victim even posted a video on social media saying his life was in danger.
The murder has kicked up a public and political outcry in the state, prompting chief minister M K Stalin to assure the state assembly that miscreants involved in Zakir Hussain’s murder would face action. “No one will escape from the court of law,” he said.
“We have issued instructions on a systematic approach against anti-social elements who have come to adverse notice,” said a senior officer. Police have been asked to monitor social media and to alert officers concerned on coming across posts such as the one by Zakir Hussain. Officials failing to act against the named suspects will be punished. On its part, the Organised Crime Intelligence Unit at DGP’s office has been collecting details of active rowdies. Specific warning have been issued to those providing asylum to anti-socials, whether businessmen or politicians, saying action would be taken against them.