Kerala Police Officer Under Investigation for Alleged Custody Protocol Violation
In a significant breach of police protocol, a civil police officer (CPO) stationed at the Pettah police station in Thiruvananthapuram is now the subject of a formal investigation. The officer is accused of providing his personal mobile phone to an aide of the infamous goon Puthenpalam Rajesh while the aide was in custody.
Commissioner Orders Probe Following Reports of Misconduct
City Police Commissioner K. Karthik has ordered a detailed inquiry into the incident after receiving reports of serious protocol violations at the station. This action underscores the department's commitment to maintaining strict discipline and adherence to established procedures, especially in high-profile cases.
Background of the Arrest and Alleged Violation
The controversy stems from the arrest of Puthenpalam Rajesh and his aide, Rajeev, on Tuesday. Both individuals were taken into custody for allegedly assaulting a vendor and his associate in the city. According to police sources familiar with the matter, while in custody, Rajeev requested CPO Shafi, who was on duty at the time, to provide a phone so he could call home.
Shockingly, the officer allegedly complied with this request, handing over his personal mobile phone to the accused. Rajeev used the device to make a call and then returned it to the CPO. This irregularity represents a clear deviation from standard custody protocols, which strictly prohibit such actions to prevent any potential tampering with evidence or communication with outside parties.
Discovery and Escalation of the Incident
The breach came to light during an inspection by Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Deepak Dhankar. Upon learning about the arrest of the notorious goon and the associated protocol violations, DCP Dhankar personally visited the Pettah police station to conduct a thorough check.
During his inspection, he examined the accused CPO's mobile phone and discovered that it had indeed been used to place a call to the residence of Rajeev, the goon's aide. This finding confirmed the initial reports and raised serious concerns about the officer's conduct.
Formal Inquiry and Potential Consequences
The matter was promptly reported to Police Commissioner K. Karthik, who immediately ordered a detailed inquiry to ascertain all facts and determine the extent of the lapse. Police sources have indicated that DCP Dhankar is personally overseeing the investigation to ensure it is conducted meticulously and without bias.
If the investigation confirms the alleged lapses, departmental action may be initiated against CPO Shafi. Such actions could include disciplinary measures ranging from suspension to more severe penalties, depending on the findings of the probe.
Broader Implications for Police Discipline
This incident highlights the critical importance of strict adherence to custody protocols within the police force. Allowing detainees access to personal communication devices can compromise investigations, enable coordination of illegal activities, and undermine public trust in law enforcement.
The Kerala police's swift response in ordering an investigation demonstrates their vigilance in upholding integrity and accountability. It serves as a reminder to all officers about the non-negotiable nature of procedural compliance, especially when dealing with individuals involved in criminal activities like Puthenpalam Rajesh and his associates.
