Kochi: An Assistant Motor Vehicle Inspector (MVI) has been suspended after he was caught in an intoxicated state, attempting to fine an auto-rickshaw driver while in his private car. The suspension of N.S. Binu, an Assistant MVI at the Ernakulam RTO office, followed his apprehension by locals and subsequent handover to the police. The Thrikkakara police have registered a case against Binu for drunken and dangerous driving and have seized his vehicle.
The incident took place on Wednesday night at Thoppil Junction in Thrikkakara. Binu, in civilian clothes and driving his personal vehicle, reportedly stopped an auto-rickshaw belonging to a couple who were selling fish by the roadside. Identifying himself as an MVI, he demanded a fine for alleged illegal vending from the auto-rickshaw. When the husband of the fish vendor arrived at the scene, Binu threatened him, instructing him to pay the fine at the office the following day.
However, locals gathered and noticed Binu’s slurred speech, erratic behavior, and strong smell of alcohol. They began questioning him, leading to a heated argument. The public then detained the MVD officer, insisting that he should not leave until the police arrived. Eventually, Thrikkakara police reached the spot and took Binu into custody.
A medical examination conducted at Thripunithura Taluk Hospital confirmed that the officer was under the influence of alcohol. Subsequently, a case was registered against him for driving negligently while intoxicated and for misbehaving with the public. Following a report from the Ernakulam Enforcement RTO regarding the incident, the Transport Commissioner ordered Binu’s suspension pending an inquiry. The Muvattupuzha RTO has been tasked with conducting a detailed investigation and submitting a report within one month.