Molested woman in police custody: Vadakara DySP Umesh suspended

KOZHIKODE: Vadakara DySP Umesh has been suspended following allegations that he molested a woman who was taken into police custody for immoral activities. The Home Department took action, citing misuse of official authority. The department’s report states that Umesh committed a serious offence.

Earlier today, Umesh had informed that he was going on leave due to health issues. The Kozhikode–Nadapuram DySP will take charge in his place. The incident that led to the allegation occurred when Umesh was serving as the CI at Wadakkanchery Police Station.

The investigation report found that Umesh sexually exploited the woman while she was in custody and later released her without registering a case. Shortly after the report was submitted, Umesh applied for leave citing health reasons. The woman recorded her statement before the District Crime Branch DySP on Monday.

In her testimony, she alleged that the DySP assaulted her multiple times after she was detained. She also claimed that Umesh accepted bribes from other detainees who were held along with her. Based on her statement, a rape case is likely to be registered against the officer. The Palakkad District Police Chief has already submitted a report to the State DGP recommending action.

The incident first came to light through the suicide note of Cherpulassery CI Binu Thomas, who alleged that the DySP had threatened and sexually assaulted a young woman taken into custody.