Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 5 – Kerala’s police chief has suspended Assistant Commandant S. Suresh after the officer was found drunk on duty during a high‑profile security assignment. The incident came while Union Home Minister Amit Shah was touring the state.
Suresh was posted at Cochin International Airport’s business‑jet terminal on Aug 21, when he was to guard the safe movement of the Home Minister. According to officials, he arrived in an intoxicated state and immediately lost his post. He was sent to Angamaly Taluk Hospital for a medical check, and a blood test confirmed the presence of alcohol.
The State Police Chief, Ravada A. Chandrasekhar, wrote a special report to the Home Department accusing Suresh of “serious breach of discipline, dereliction of duty, and gross irresponsibility.” He highlighted that the misconduct was especially egregious because it happened during a VVIP visit of national importance. The report said the officer’s actions damaged security protocols and the credibility of the Kerala Armed Police.
After reviewing the report, the Home Department ordered an immediate suspension of Suresh. The officer will receive his subsistence allowance during the suspension, per Kerala Service Rules. A formal investigation will begin under the Kerala Police Departmental Inquiries, Punishment and Appeal Rules, 1958.
If the inquiry finds disciplinary violations, Suresh could face penalties ranging from a pay cut to dismissal. Police officials said they will also review current security procedures to avoid future breaches, especially during visits by high‑ranking leaders.
The incident has raised concerns among senior police officials, who stressed the importance of discipline and strict adherence to security protocols during VVIP arrivals.
Source:
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
