The Ernakulam Range DIG Yatheesh Chandra on Saturday suspended two police personnel in Idukki following a report submitted by District Police Chief A. Naseem. The suspended officers are Sub-Inspector Roy Sukumaran and Civil Police Officer (CPO) Jijo Antony, both attached to the Karimannur police station. The suspension follows a chemical analysis report confirming that the officers were intoxicated while on duty..

The incident occurred during the World Cup football final, where locals had set up a big-screen screening at Mangattukavala near Thodupuzha. When the two officers arrived at the venue, local residents and CPI(M) activists blocked them, alleging they were drunk. Upon inspecting the police vehicle, residents found a liquor bottle. They also recovered a packet of tobacco and a deck of playing cards from one of the officers’ caps.

Although an initial medical examination failed to confirm alcohol consumption, authorities sent samples for further chemical analysis. District Police Chief A. Naseem confirmed the lab results showed the officers had indeed consumed alcohol. “I have forwarded the report to the Ernakulam Range DIG, recommending strict action against the two personnel,” he said. Department officials noted that the officers being drunk amidst “Operation Toofan” was brought disrepute to the entire police force.

Following the confrontation, the Thodupuzha police registered a case against 200 people, including CPI(M) Thodupuzha East Area Secretary Liju Jose, for allegedly obstructing police officers from performing their duties. However, CPI(M) leaders approached the High Court, accusing the police of attempting to cover up the issue to protect their own officers. The court subsequently directed authorities to submit details of the case.

CPI(M) leaders stated that the latest medical report validates the allegations raised by the party and the public. They added that the party would move the High Court to quash the “FIR” filed by the Thodupuzha police.

Published - July 25, 2026 08:19 pm IST