Inspector suspended for demanding bribe from illegal miners

The action against the inspector comes after an audio clip showing Nazir demanding money from the sand miners went viral on social media five days ago. He had demanded a sum of Rs 20,000 from the miners, sources said. 

Deputy Inspector General of Police, Ramanathapuram Range, S Kamini, issued the suspension order, on Thursday. An examination of the audio clip revealed that Nazir made nearly 15-20 calls to the miners over the last few days, demanding money. The prima facie evidence showed that the inspector was indulging in such illegal activities for a long time. 

Sources said, Nazir had served at Thondi station in Ramanathapuram district for 2 years before being shifted to Sikkal four months ago.

Ramanathapuram Superintendent of Police, Omprakash Meena, said that following the audio leak, Ramanathapuram Deputy Superintendent of Police Natarajan was asked to conduct an inquiry into the activities of Nazir. On completion of the inquiry, a report was submitted.

Sources added that nine teams had been formed in the district to check on illegal sand mining activities. On an average in a month, about 60 to 70 vehicles were being detained for indulging in such illegal activities.