How Did Rs 5 Lakh Go Missing from Kerala's High-Security Jail Cafeteria?
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Synopsis
A daring theft at Kerala's high-security Poojappura jail cafeteria has left authorities baffled. With Rs 5 lakh stolen, questions arise about security lapses and potential inside knowledge. Could this incident signal deeper issues within the prison system?
Key Takeaways
- Rs 5 lakh was stolen from the cafeteria of Poojappura jail.
- The cafeteria is located in a high-security zone.
- No surveillance cameras were present at the cafeteria.
- This incident is not isolated; previous thefts have occurred at the facility.
- The jail is overcrowded, housing over 1,500 inmates.
Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 18 (NationPress) In an astonishing incident, a theft has occurred at the 'Food for Freedom cafeteria', managed by inmates adjacent to the Poojappura Central Jail, recognized as the state’s most secure prison.
This facility, situated in the bustling capital, reported the theft early Monday morning.
Preliminary estimates indicate that nearly Rs five lakh was taken when intruders forced their way through the cafeteria entrance, accessed the office area, and stole cash from a locker.
The funds were reportedly intended for deposit into the treasury on Monday.
What heightens the concern is that the cafeteria operates within a high-security zone directly adjacent to the Central Jail.
Authorities suspect that the culprits were likely familiar with the premises and aware of the collection procedures.
The incident became apparent early Monday, prompting the Poojappura police to be alerted.
While law enforcement is currently analyzing CCTV footage from nearby locations, the cafeteria itself lacked surveillance cameras, raising significant issues.
The stolen amount is believed to encompass three days’ worth of revenue collected from Friday’s public holiday and the subsequent busy weekend.
This is not the first security incident at Poojappura jail.
Just months prior, equipment valued at approximately Rs five lakh was reportedly pilfered from the jail’s solar power facility, where nearly 300 unused batteries were disassembled.
Despite filing a case at that time, police have yet to apprehend any suspects.
The Food for Freedom cafeteria, which is located right in front of the Central Jail, was established to highlight inmates' skills, initially gaining fame for its “jail chapatis” that became a household favorite in Kerala.
Launched in 2011 under then DGP Alexander Jacob and subsequently expanded into a cafeteria model, this initiative has been praised as a progressive reform.
However, the recent theft has now raised concerns regarding the security measures of such initiatives.
The Poojappura jail, currently housing over 1,500 inmates despite a sanctioned capacity of just 700, has faced ongoing challenges with staffing and overcrowding.
Point of View
The theft at the Poojappura jail cafeteria highlights significant vulnerabilities in prison security. As we strive for reform and rehabilitation, incidents like these raise serious questions about the effectiveness of current measures. It is imperative for authorities to address these issues promptly, ensuring both the safety of the public and the integrity of rehabilitation programs.
NationPress
07/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was stolen from the cafeteria?
Approximately Rs 5 lakh was stolen from the cafeteria, which was intended for deposit into the treasury.
When did the theft occur?
The theft was discovered early on Monday, August 18.
Is this the first theft at Poojappura jail?
No, this is not the first incident; a previous theft involving equipment worth Rs 5 lakh occurred at the jail's solar power plant.
What security measures were lacking?
The cafeteria did not have any installed surveillance cameras, which contributed to the ease of the theft.
Why is this theft significant?
This incident raises serious concerns about security protocols in high-security facilities and the management of inmate-run programs.
