Kerala govt suspends two top cops from service

KOCHI: Continuing the campaign against police-criminal nexus in the state, Kerala government on Thursday suspended two DYSPS (Deputy Superintends of Police) from service. Trivandrum Rural district Crime Branch DYSP KJ Johnson and Trivandrum Special Vigilance Unit -1 DYSP P Prasad were suspended from service ater initial inquiry.

The birthday bash of Johnson’s daughter was sponsored by criminal gangs, according to reports. Murders and murder atempts involving criminal gangs were reported from Trivandrum district in recent times.

Two Circle Inspectors and one Sub Inspector were suspended two days back following their links with criminal gang.

The image of Kerala police was tarnished by reports of growing nexus between law enforcing agencies and criminal groups.

Kerala police prepared a list of around 30 station house officers (SHOS) who abused their power and engaged in nefarious activities.

The list, which includes officers who indulged in illegal activities, including abeted criminal gangs and land mafia, was prepared by the police ater a thorough review on the conduct of all SHOS.

The mammoth exercise was initiated last year ater it was found that several officers were abusing their power for monetary gains.

The department is relying on its intelligence wing as well as the Internal Vigilance Cell headed by the ADGP (Headquarters) to collect details of erring cops.

The department decided to escalate its offensive against erring officers ater several incidents of the police colluding with shady elements were reported from across the state.

Fity-nine police personnel who are accused of serious crimes could be dismissed from service.

On the list of personnel against whom action is being contemplated are those accused of crimes punishable with life imprisonment or 10 years in prison.

Those police personnel who are involved in crimes punishable with imprisonment of less than seven years have been let out of the list for the time being.