By IANS
Thiruvananthapuram : Kerala Thursday ordered a probe into an alleged nexus between policemen and a gang of crooks fleecing passengers arriving at the international airport here.
The probe was ordered by Home Minister Kodiyeri Balakrishnan after a vernacular newspaper Thursday published a story on the issue. The paper claims that some crooks act as porters and fleece passengers by collecting money for placing their bags in vehicles. Police officials allegedly take money from them for turning a blind eye to the illegal activity.
Balakrishnan has asked Inspector General of Police Arun Kumar Sinha to conduct an inquiry and submit a report at the earliest.
Sinha told IANS: “We have not received any formal complaint to this effect and it was only after the newspaper report that we have decided to conduct an inquiry. We mean business and stern action would be taken against the erring policeman.”
“We request all passengers to see that if there are any such instances of harassment, they should forward a complaint to any top police official,” he added.
These touts usually target foreigners and demand payment in foreign currency for handling their luggage. Almost 2,000 travellers arrive at the international airport daily.