'Reel Goons' Are on Kerala's Radar as Government Signals Crackdown on Organised Crime

For years, Kerala's law-and-order debates have centred on organised gangs and political violence. Now, a new term has entered the conversation: "reel goons."

The phrase, used by Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala, refers to individuals who allegedly use social media to project a gangster image while engaging in criminal activities—a trend authorities say they are no longer willing to ignore.

Speaking after the arrest of Arjun Ayanki, a history-sheeter who was taken into custody following a two-day manhunt in Kannur, Chennithala said the state would crack down not only on organised crime but also on those who believe online popularity or intimidation can place them above the law.

"There is no need for over-smartness," the minister said, warning that those involved in anti-social activities would face strict legal action.

The remarks come amid growing concerns over the way criminal identities are increasingly amplified on digital platforms, with some alleged offenders building large online followings through short videos, public displays of power and carefully curated personas.

Without naming specific creators, Chennithala said that "reel goons" would not be allowed to operate in Kerala and stressed that the law applies equally to everyone.

The minister also accused some people of encouraging or sheltering criminal elements for personal gain, saying the government would not tolerate the use of gangs to settle private or political interests.

The warning follows the arrest of Arjun Ayanki, who faces multiple criminal cases and had allegedly been evading police before being arrested from a hideout in Kannur after an intensive search operation.

Beyond the crackdown on organised crime, Chennithala also defended the government's handling of a separate case involving T.G. Mohandas, saying due legal procedure was followed after a complaint over alleged inflammatory remarks made in a YouTube video. He said the Cyber Cell registered an FIR only after examining the legal merits of the complaint, emphasising that arrests cannot be made without following established procedures.

The minister's remarks signal that Kerala's law enforcement strategy may now extend beyond conventional criminal networks to include the growing influence of social media in shaping and, at times, glamorising criminal identities.

(With inputs from ANI)