Kochi Police Chief Removed Over Judicial Family Car Crash Inquiry

Kaliraj Mahesh Kumar has been removed from his position as Kochi City Police Commissioner, official sources confirmed, amid an ongoing investigation into a high-profile motor vehicle incident involving the minor son of a judicial officer. He is expected to be succeeded by R. Nishanthini, currently serving as Inspector General of Police for the South Zone.

The administrative reshuffle follows swift action by the state government, which suspended four police personnel attached to Cheranalloor police station on the previous day. The suspensions were linked to the handling of the luxury car crash case that has drawn significant public and official scrutiny.

The incident, which occurred in Cheranalloor, has triggered questions about police procedures and the handling of cases involving families of senior judicial officials. The removal of the police commissioner signals the government's response to concerns raised during the preliminary investigation.

Nishanthini's appointment as Police Commissioner represents a notable shift in the department's leadership during a period of heightened accountability. Her transition from her current post as South Zone IGP is expected to bring fresh oversight to the city police department amid the ongoing probe.