Smuggling racket: 8 CISF men suspended, commandant transferred

Following the incident that took place last week, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) headquarters here has taken stern measures and has placed under suspension two Sub-Inspectors (who were arrested by Directorate of Revenue Intelligence) and six other junior rank personnel after the incident came to light.

Among these men is an Assistant Commandant (local rank) who has been demoted.

"We have suspended eight personnel including the two who were arrested in the case at first. We are taking this incident very seriously," CISF chief Rajiv told PTI.

The CISF Director General has also ordered immediate transfer of a senior Commandant of the Mumbai airport to a "hard area" posting in Chhattisgarh's Naxal hotbed of Dantewada.

The force that guards sensitive airports of the country has also asked for a clarification from the earlier Deputy Inspector General of Police who was looking after the security of the airport. The DIG had proceeded on transfer to the north east just before this case came to light.

Sources said a senior IG from the headquarters here is camping in Mumbai to further probe the role of some troopers in any possible alleged criminal activity while being deployed at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Airport in Mumbai. CISF has categorised Mumbai airport as "highly sensitive".

A senior IPS officer who officiates as the Inspector General (Airport) here has also been replaced by a new officer. However, officials termed this move as "routine".

Two CISF officials stationed at Mumbai airport were among five persons arrested by DRI last week for their alleged involvement in a gold smuggling racket. A probe by both DRI and CISF will establish the exact role of the securitymen in this incident. Over 10 kg of gold worth Rs three crore was seized from the five men.