Thiruvananthapuram | The city police on Monday raided a two-wheeler rental service firm operating without a licence and in violation of norms in Pazhavangadi here.

According to police, the raid was carried out by a special squad following a tip-off received by the Thiruvananthapuram City Police Commissioner.

Officials said over 100 two-wheelers and five cars were found at a property taken on rent for running the rental service.

As per norms, rental service vehicles must be registered with the Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) and have number plates distinct from private vehicles, officials said.

However, the operators were allegedly renting out private vehicles that had been taken as collateral for loans they provided.

Police also found around 200 litres of petrol stored in cans at the premises.

Officials said the owner of the firm is an accused in a murder case and is currently absconding.

Police have shut down the firm and said further legal action will be taken after consulting the MVD.

Efforts are on to contact the owners of each vehicle and collect further details, police added.