HYDERABAD: In an unprecedented move, Hyderabad Commissioner of Police (CP) Kothakota Sreenivasa Reddy ordered the transfer of 85 of the 130 police personnel, ranging from sub-inspectors to constables, from the Punjagutta police station on Wednesday.
The transfers follow a string of incidents, including the leak of sensitive information and the escape of Raheel, the son of former BRS MLA Aamir Shakil, from custody. Ironically, the police station had previously received an award for the prompt disposal of cases and the provision of efficient public services.
While KS Reddy was reportedly frustrated with the handling of several cases by the police personnel at Punjagutta station, sources said the incident that alarmed him the most was that of inspector B Durga Rao allegedly aiding Raheel’s escape after the accident and framing another person as the culprit.
DCP (West Zone) SM Vijay Kumar said, “Inspector Shoban, formerly with the CP office, has been appointed as the new station house officer. The decision to transfer the officers was based on reports highlighting administrative concerns and their involvement in activities disrupting efficient operations. This move aims to restore order, address security concerns and enhance policing for improved public service.”
All transferred personnel have been reassigned to the Armed Reserve (AR). Additionally, 82 officers selected from various wings such as law and order and SHE Teams have been attached to the Punjagutta police station. Additionally, the CP has suspended the Gopalapuram SHO for negligence in handling a murder case.
In Raheel’s case, after the role of inspector Durga, who is currently on the run, came to light, the CP issued orders suspending him. Recently, the Bodhan CI and an associate of the former MLA was taken into custody over their alleged involvement in helping Raheel escape based on the analysis of the suspended inspector’s call records.
In another incident within Punjagutta police station limits, a man recently caused chaos on Ameerpet roads while attempting to evade a pursuit. The accused, Aamir Ali, recklessly drove a rented car, colliding with pedestrians when he noticed the car owner chasing him.
Allegedly, Ali had rented the car in November 2023 and failed to return it. Upon recognising his vehicle being driven by Ali, the owner started chasing him. An angry crowd intervened, apprehending Ali and handing him over to the police, who subsequently took him to Gandhi Hospital. Surprisingly, he managed to escape after receiving treatment.
Furthermore, there are allegations that officers at the Punjagutta police station may have affiliations with the previous BRS government and are divulging sensitive information to opposition leaders.