Three excise officers suspended for taking monthly bribes from 16 foreign liquor shops

KOCHI: Three excise officers have been suspended in connection with a bribery case. Excise range inspector Sabu R Chandra, preventive officer Prathapan and Perumbavoor excise CI Saji Kumar have been suspended pending an investigation. The three officers are facing a probe of an SIT under the leadership of excise commissioner for taking bribe from bar owners. Talking to Keralakaumudi Flash, Ernakulam Deputy Commissioner said the officers have been suspended. It is learnt that the suspended officers will have to face a vigilance probe as well.

The officers took a bribe from 16 foreign liquor shops in Kunnathunadu Circle. The bar owners were annoyed by the ridiculously high monthly bribe demanded by the officers. Following this, the association of the bar owners intervened but the officers didn't oblige. The bar owners then lodged a complaint with the chief minister and the vigilance. On the declaration of the vigilance probe, the money was returned under the mediation of the excise association.

But this move became public and the excise officers under Perumbavoor Circle were transferred. But, no action was ordered against the SI and CI back then. The transfer of 22 officers was after recording the statements of bar owners.