THIRUVANANTHAPURAM : The vigilance probe against ADGP (law and order) MR Ajith Kumar and former Malappuram SP Sujith Das , who is currently under suspension, is likely to be conducted as a single inquiry, focusing on four main points. It is reliably learnt that the inquiry will be handed over to a special investigation unit of the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau ( VACB ) as the probe requires a state-wide jurisdiction. The probe will cover allegations of accepting bribes in connection with a case registered against the editor of an online media outlet and construction of a palatial house in Thiruvananthapuram, misappropriation of seized gold.
Ajith Kumar does not have any control over VACB The misappropriation charges have been made against the ADGP M R Ajith Kumar, Sujith Das, and members of the Malappuram DANSAF team. The probe will also cover the allegation against Sujith Das of cutting, removing, and misappropriating valuable trees from the Malappuram district police chief’s camp. The probe will be undertaken as a single inquiry as the charge of misappropriation of seized gold is applicable to both officers.
The govt had ordered the investigation on Thursday, on the basis of a recommendation from the state police chief on a petition filed by CPM-backed independent MLA PV Anvar. Though Sujith Das is under suspension, Ajith Kumar is still holding his post. Ajith Kumar does not have any control over VACB as it is an independent agency, but officers facing serious charges are, as per convention, removed from their posts if they are holding significant positions in the govt.
ADGP (law and order) is one of the key posts in the force. It is also learnt that vigilance director Yogesh Gupta, who is in the rank of DGP, will directly supervise the inquiry as the probe is against two IPS officers and one of them is a senior officer. A top-level team headed by the state police chief is already probing various allegations levelled by Anvar against these officers.
LDF ally CPI had, on Thursday, questioned the continuation of the ADGP in his post. Sujith Das was suspended from service after one of his purported conversations with Anvar was leaked to the media..
