The police have uncovered a network involving alleged gold smuggling and a planned dacoity at the Calicut International Airport. The case emerged after the arrest of 16 people linked to rival gangs. The groups were reportedly trying to seize smuggled gold from an international passenger who arrived at the airport last Sunday (June 7).

The investigation began after the police arrested 14 people, including a woman, who allegedly gathered at the airport on June 7 to abduct a passenger and rob him of gold and cash. Acting on a tip-off, the police caught them from the airport’s parking area.

The police said the accused had reached the airport in five groups to carry out the robbery. Two cars, a scooter, and 14 mobile phones were seized from them. WhatsApp chats recovered from the phones allegedly showed planning for the operation.

According to the police, the group acted on instructions from Ansar Kaippekandi, a Kannur native based in Saudi Arabia, and Ali Akbar of Parappanangadi. Both were suspected to have coordinated the operation.

The case developed after the police traced Mohammed Salman Salih from Munduparamba, Malappuram, who had arrived on a flight the same day and was reported missing by his family. He was later taken into custody.

During questioning, Salman allegedly said he diverted a smuggled gold consignment instead of delivering it to the person named by its owner. The police said he was offered ₹40 lakh to hand over the gold to another party, but chose to share it with associates.

The police said Salman left the airport with associates and went to a house at Mukkam, where Sadhiq P.P. of Parappanangadi joined them. They then travelled to Kochi, rented a room, opened the trolley bag containing the gold, and divided the booty. Based on his statement, the police arrested Sadhiq and remanded both men in custody.

According to the police, they were working to recover the gold and identify others involved. The police said the case pointed to a network where smuggling and robbery gangs competed for control of gold consignments at Karipur airport. Further arrests are expected.