Thiruvananthapuram, Feb. 17 -- In a statewide special drive aimed at strengthening law and order and public safety, the Kerala Police arrested 1,663 people under the initiative titled "Operation Round Up."

According to official sources, the special operation targeted habitual offenders and individuals involved in serious crimes.

During the drive, 691 persons linked to grave criminal activities were taken into custody. 972 absconding accused in various cases were arrested.

The operation was launched as per the directive of State Police Chief Ravada Azad Chandrasekhar, with the objective of tracing goons, repeat offenders, thieves, and other wanted criminals and bringing them before the law.

The drive was conducted from February 12 to 1...