Arjun Ayanki, an accused in several criminal cases who is currently absconding, reportedly reached Edappal in the district while the police were conducting a search for him. He visited a private Ayurveda hospital at Edappal, the police said.

Surveillance camera footage showing Mr. Ayanki at the hospital has led the police to intensify the search for him at different parts of Malappuram. The footage also shows four men from Vattamkulam in the district accompanying him.

The police took the four persons into custody and questioned them. The police said they were later released.

The four reportedly came into contact with Mr. Ayanki through social media. Their accounts had earlier featured photos and reels with him. The police also suspect that Mr. Ayanki had visited Edappal with them previously.

The police have also reportedly received information that Mr. Ayanki travelled through Kuttippuram, Edappal and Changaramkulam in recent days. Searches have intensified in these areas.

Published - August 08, 2026 08:22 pm IST