Muvattupuzha: A special investigation team led by Inspector Basil Thomas was formed to probe the alleged embezzlement of ₹16.76 lakh in fines collected for petty traffic violations at Muvattupuzha police station, Ernakulam. Authorities suspect more police personnel may be involved in the fraud, which spanned four years.

The case involves money collected as cash fines between 1 January 2018 and 31 December 2022, which was allegedly misappropriated by not depositing the full amount into the bank and tampering with official records. The matter came to light following an order from the District Rural Police Chief.

Santhi Krishna, a senior Civil Police Officer (CPO) who worked as a station writer, was suspended from service after initial findings pointed to her role. However, she denied the allegations and claimed that other officers were responsible. Following her statement, the special team was tasked with verifying all aspects before any arrests.

The fraud occurred before the adoption of ePOS machines, when traffic fines were collected in cash and entrusted to the station writer. It was the writer's responsibility to enter the figures in the accounts and deposit the amount at the bank using a challan. Investigators found that accurate amounts were recorded in station registers, but lesser sums were deposited. The challan was falsified and bank receipts were altered to cover up the discrepancy.

Investigators will gather statements from all sub-inspectors who served during the period and collect handwriting samples for forensic analysis. The intelligence wing has also reported probable involvement of additional officers.

Meanwhile, the police department has plans to transfer the case to the Vigilance, as charges under the anti-corruption law have been filed.