Shillong, October 1: East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem has confirmed the suspension of police personnel accused of illegally collecting money from truck drivers at checkpoints in the Mawryngkneng and Thangshalai areas, pending an inquiry.

Speaking to the media, Syiem said the district police follow a policy of “zero tolerance” towards illegal collections, extortion and corruption.

He said videos that surfaced in connection with the allegations prompted the department to initiate action and investigate the matter. The suspension was also intended to prevent the personnel concerned from interfering with the inquiry, he added.

However, the SP clarified that suspension does not amount to a finding of guilt, stating that any further disciplinary action would depend on the inquiry’s findings and the applicable service rules.

Emphasising the proper functioning of police checkpoints, Syiem said vehicle inspections must not be used as an opportunity to demand or collect money from drivers. He stressed that allegations of misconduct involving police personnel must be investigated.

He also urged truck drivers and members of the public to report any illegal demands for money to the Police Control Room or the SP’s office, providing relevant information and evidence to assist the investigation.

Syiem reiterated that the department takes such complaints seriously and said the inquiry would establish the facts and determine the appropriate course of action.