In a major law‑enforcement push across Kerala, the Kerala Police have arrested 1,663 people as part of a statewide special operation called “Operation Round Up.” The drive, conducted from February 12 to 14, 2026, aimed to strengthen public safety, track down repeat offenders and bring habitual criminals to justice, officials said.
Under the direction of State Police Chief Ravada Azad Chandrasekhar, the operation targeted habitual offenders, wanted suspects and individuals involved in serious crimes throughout the state. Among those taken into custody, 691 were linked to grave criminal activities, while 972 were absconders in various cases, police said in an official statement.
To further ensure law and order, 1,028 people were subjected to preventive action under Sections 126 and 129 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). Additionally, 20 people were placed under preventive detention under the Kerala Anti‑Social Activities Prevention (KAAPA) Act, and externment proceedings were initiated against 30 others to keep potential troublemakers away from key areas.
The statewide push also addressed road safety, with 1,354 cases registered against individuals caught driving under the influence of alcohol; authorities have started procedures to suspend their licences.
Police officials said the operation was carried out through coordinated efforts led by the Law and Order ADGP, zonal Inspectors General, Range DIGs and District Police Chiefs across all regions of Kerala. The drive reflects the state police’s commitment to cracking down on crime and strengthening law enforcement in both urban and rural areas.
Officials have indicated that similar focused enforcement drives will continue in coming months to sustain public safety and further deter criminal activity statewide.
