The participation of gangsters and their associates in a farewell function organized inside the Ernakulam District Jail has triggered a major controversy. The serious security breach came to light after one of the gangsters uploaded Instagram reels shot from within the prison premises. The intelligence wing has begun gathering details about the incident.

The event was a farewell feast arranged on May 31 by O.J. Thomas, Welfare Officer, and T.M. Pareed, Gatekeeper of the district jail, both of whom retired from service on that day. The gangster group, led by Karukappilly Siddique, reportedly entered the jail upon an invitation from O.J. Thomas. Among the attendees was actor Nadirshah’s brother Samad. Others who took part in the event included Riyas, Shafeeq, Yasir, Farooq, and Abhijith, all from Karukappilly.

The group arrived at the jail around 2:30 PM in two cars and reportedly spent about half an hour inside. It is said that the gang presented a bouquet and a gift to O.J. Thomas. The event took place in the jail hall, with several staff members, including women officers, present at the time.

The controversy erupted when Riyas posted the reels on Instagram recently, showing the cars entering through the main gate and people exiting through smaller doors. Group photos taken with O.J. Thomas also surfaced online. The incident has caused considerable embarrassment to the jail superintendent. Though no formal police complaint has been filed yet, sources indicate that the Jail Department has initiated an internal inquiry into the matter.