Demanded and accepted bribe from customer at Bevco outlet; two employees suspended

KARUNAGAPPALLY: Two employees of a Kerala State Beverages Corporation (Bevco) outlet in Karunagappally have been suspended following a complaint alleging that they demanded and accepted money from a customer buying liquor. The suspended employees have been identified as Sudhin Raj and Amal Dev. The action was taken by the Bevco Managing Director based on an investigation report.

A video had surfaced showing an employee allegedly demanding and accepting Rs 50 from a customer who bought three litres of liquor. The video was reportedly recorded by the customer. Amal Dev was identified as the employee who allegedly collected the extra money, while Sudhin Raj was the outlet in-charge.

It was also alleged that Sudhin Raj did not take action on the complaint raised against Amal Dev. Subsequently, action was taken against him as well.

Following the complaint, which was supported by the video, Excise Minister M Liju directed officials to conduct an inquiry and take action. Bevco's internal audit department will also investigate the complaint. The audit team has been directed to submit its report at the earliest.