An unusual case of gold smuggling has come to light in Kerala, involving a woman who allegedly orchestrated her own kidnapping to steal gold she brought from Dubai. The dramatic events unfolded near Karipur International Airport and resulted in a high-speed police chase.
Elaborate Scheme Exposed
The woman, identified as Priyanka from Thalassery, reportedly attempted to deceive authorities by staging her abduction. She had arrived in Kerala carrying approximately 18 sovereigns of gold intended for Jabir, a man from Mattannur. However, police investigations suggest that she collaborated with three individuals from Kannur—Sreelal, Prince, and Subith—to execute the plan.
The plot involved Sreelal bringing a vehicle to the airport with Priyanka’s husband and children inside, using them as a cover to make the operation appear like a regular family trip. Unbeknownst to her family, this was part of a scheme to divert the smuggled gold.
High-Speed Chase and Arrests
Tensions escalated when the Karipur Airport Station House Officer, who was monitoring gold-smuggling activities, noticed a man running after a blue Maruti Baleno. This man was later identified as Jabir, the intended recipient of the gold. The officer, suspecting a kidnapping, initiated a chase that extended for 12 kilometers towards Pulikkal Andiyorkunnu.
The pursuit took a dramatic turn when the Baleno, after being cornered by a police jeep, reversed and temporarily evaded capture. Police eventually intercepted the vehicle, arresting Priyanka and her accomplices. Jabir was also detained shortly after.
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
Authorities have confirmed that Priyanka’s husband was not involved in the conspiracy and had no knowledge of the staged kidnapping or smuggling activities. His and the children’s presence was exploited to lend legitimacy to the scheme.
The three individuals from Kannur, who assisted Priyanka, are reportedly involved in multiple criminal cases. Police are now delving deeper into the smuggling operation, seeking to identify financial backers, potential involvement of customs officials, and any links to a broader smuggling network.
Source: NDTV India
