After the catastrophic landslides, thieves are now adding to the woes of the Wayanad landslide victims! Many Wayanad residents, who had to abandon their properties due to the landslides, have reported thefts in their homes. They believe that thieves might be taking advantage of the abandoned properties and police have decided to increase night patrols to assure the residents.
Wayanad Landslide Victims Report Thefts At Abandoned Properties
Thousands of Wayanad residents were forced to flee their homes when massive landslides hit the district earlier this week. Now, many displaced residents are claiming that thieves might be taking advantage of this situation and looting their valuables from their abandoned homes and properties.
The displaced residents suspect that thieves are exploiting the situation to steal their valuables and have urged the police to take action against them. The police have increased night patrols in the area. According to an India Today report, some affected individuals have asked the authorities to identify and penalise those who trespass with the intent of stealing under the cover of darkness.
In an official statement, Kerala Police stated that patrols have been initiated in disaster-hit villages like Chooralmala and Mundakkai. They have assured local residents that they will take strict action against anyone who tries to enter the affected areas without permission.
Also Read: Actor Mohanlal Visits Landslide-Struck Wayanad; Pledges ₹3 Crore For Rehabilitation Work
Rescue Efforts Intensify As Death Toll Reaches 358
Landslides in Wayanad’s Chooralmala and Mundakkal have brought Kerala to a standstill. The devastating landslides have claimed 358 lives, and the authorities fear that the number might go up as they are still not able to find 250 missing people. The relentless rainfall in the area caused delays in the rescue operations as well.
On Saturday, Actor Mohanlal visited Wayanad and pledged ₹3 crore for rehabilitation work. He took to X (formerly Twitter) to show his gratitude to the rescue teams who are working tirelessly to save people. In his post, he said, “I salute the courage of the selfless volunteers, policemen, Fire & Rescue, NDRF, army soldiers, government officials, and every person working tirelessly to provide relief to the victims of the Wayanad disaster.”
The rescue and relief operations are underway at various locations in Wayanad, and we hope that the teams are able to save as many lives as possible.
Cover Image Courtesy: X/@nehaGurung1692 & X/@ManikondaM88292