Slug: Election security driveThiruvananthapuram: As part of an election security drive, police seized a cache of weapons from Putrikad Colony in Balaramapuram. Search operation was conducted to take history-sheeters into preventive custody.Weapons were found wrapped in sacks and cloth near a water tank. The haul included six swords, two axes, one machete, iron rods and crude bombs. Police have launched an investigation to identify those behind the stash.Police said the seizure followed a tip-off that a major altercation was likely to take place in the area during election period. Searches were intensified in sensitive pockets of Balaramapuram.Station house officer Abhilash said patrolling has been stepped up, especially in colonies where anti-social activities have been frequently reported. “We have increased night inspections across all areas. Special teams in plainclothes are conducting regular surveillance to monitor suspicious movements,” he said.Police added that strict action will be taken against those attempting to disrupt law and order during election period. Preventive measures, including identifying and taking known offenders into custody, are being carried out to ensure peaceful polling.The area had witnessed violent clashes between two groups around four months ago.
