Police have launched an investigation into the alleged money lending business floated here by five policemen.
Additional Director General of Police (south zone) M Hemachandran said the crime branch is investigating into the case. The five policemen were suspended from service after complaints against them were found genuine in the preliminary investigations. A departmental inquiry has also been initiated.
The policemen under scanner are Satheeeh, writer at the assistant commissioner’s office, Shankhumukham Vijayan, writer at the traffic assistant commissioner’s office, Mohanan, writer at the fort circle inspector office, Preman, additional sub-inspector at the Pettah police station and Suresh, assistant sub-inspector with the traffic wing.
They allegedly charged a hefty interest and threatened clients who faltered in repayment.
A merchant at the Chalai market in the city, who was being frequently intimidated by these money lenders, had lodged a complaint.
Sources said the tainted policemen have lent crores of rupees, amassed illegally. It is suspected that some of their colleagues and senior officers are partners in the business.
Investigations suggested that they seek the service of goons to extract money from defaulters.