THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: People are concerned with auto taxi drivers being accused in criminal cases. Recently, a woman was molested by an auto driver within the limits of Fort Police Station. He is accused in 9 cases including a POCSO case.

It is estimated that many people use public transport system like this to commit crimes. This year there are around 20 cases registered in the name of auto drivers.

The actions of such people affect other autorickshaw workers who are doing their job properly. There is a tendency to blame a community itself for the misdeeds of a few.

At night, autorickshaws from outside the city come and run in the city. Auto drivers in the city inform the police about any suspicious autos.

It is indicated that there are people who engage in crimes under the guise of being auto drivers.

City police to strengthen surveillance

In the wake of the incident in Fort police station limits, police surveillance will be intensified among auto drivers in the city. At present, autos running at night must reach the respective station limits and sign register. This has been made strict.

Patrolling will be strengthened: DCP

Thiruvananthapuram Deputy Commissioner Nidhin Raj told Kerala Kaumudi that strict action will be taken against vehicles running without police permission. "Instructions have been issued at all stations. Other auto drivers should be ready to report to the police station if they see auto drivers who are not familiar with their area. If passengers board an auto in the middle of the night, they should share their live location with someone close", DCP said.