Malappuram (Kerala) | An inquiry into the disappearance of around eight sovereigns of gold ornaments kept at the Karipur police station has found the alleged involvement of a suspended former SHO, officials said on Sunday.
According to police, an inquiry conducted by a team led by a Deputy Superintendent of Police concluded that the former Station House Officer (SHO), who is currently under suspension in connection with another disciplinary matter, was allegedly behind the disappearance of the ornaments. The inquiry report has been submitted to the Malappuram District Police Chief.
Police sources said the ornaments -- three gold chains, two earrings, a ring and a bracelet -- had been handed over by members of the public after they were found misplaced so they could be returned to their rightful owners.
Some of the ornaments had reportedly been found by passengers at the Karipur airport and were later deposited at the police station for safekeeping. They were kept in an almirah at the station, officials said.
As part of the inquiry, CCTV footage from the police station is being examined to determine whether the ornaments were stolen. Statements of police personnel attached to the station have also been recorded.
The inquiry team questioned the former SHO, who allegedly admitted that the ornaments were in his possession.
According to officials, the officer claimed the ornaments had come into his custody by mistake and said he was ready to return them.
The inquiry report will be forwarded to the Range Deputy Inspector General of Police, who is expected to submit a report to the Police Headquarters before any disciplinary action is initiated.
Meanwhile, activists of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML)-affiliated Youth League staged a protest march to the Karipur police station, demanding strict action against those responsible. The protesters were stopped in front of the police station.
Speaking to reporters, they demanded that a criminal case be registered in connection with the disappearance of the ornaments and that a special investigation team be constituted to probe the incident.
