CHENNAI: Six policemen linked to the 2023 Marakkanam hooch tragedy, which resulted in multiple fatalities, have been sent on compulsory retirement.

The order was issued by Villupuram Range Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Disha Mittal as part of disciplinary measures in the long-pending illicit liquor case.

The officers removed from the services include five personnel formerly stationed at the Marakkanam police station—Senthilkumar, Velu, Gunasekaran, Prabhu, and Muthukummar—along with Arunan, an officer attached to the Kottakuppam Prohibition Enforcement wing. All six were serving in their respective roles at the time of the incident.

The 2023 tragedy, triggered by the consumption of toxic illicit liquor in Marakkanam, led to widespread public outrage and demands for accountability.

Authorities confirmed that the compulsory retirement order was finalised after a prolonged investigation into alleged dereliction of duty by the officers. Further legal and departmental actions in the case remain underway.