Death of models: Two high-ranking police officers intervened to rescue the hotel owner

KOCHI: Two high-ranking police officials had intervened to rescue hotel owner Roy Joseph Vayalat in the case related to the accident that resulted in the deaths of three, including former Miss Kerala, a special branch report stated. As per the report, an IPS officer at the police headquarters and an officer of the Kochi City Police tried to save Roy, an accused in the case.

As a result, action may be taken against the officials. The two officials are likely to be removed from the charge of law and order.

The Chief Minister's Office has directed the state police chief Anil Kant to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident. Sources said that the DGP has reprimanded the officials for intervening in the case and tarnishing the image of the government.

The state special branch conducted the probe following a report published by Kerala Kaumudi on November 17 on the involvement of top officials.

It is learnt that the IPS officer had rebuked the officer who conducted a raid at the No.18 hotel. Following this, the team that set out to raid Roy Joseph's house for a second time returned without conducting the raid.

The IPS officer, who arrived in Kochi on the day Roy Joseph was questioned, had allegedly called the investigating officers to the police club and checked the video footage. The special branch is collecting details about this. It has been alleged that the hotel, which is located in front of the Fort Kochi police station, was able to organise a dance party and serve liquor late into the night by using high influence.