Procedural Irregularities By Police During Search, Seizure Of Contraband Are Misconduct Not Criminal Offence

The Kerala High Court has quashed an FIR against a police officer accused of illegal search and bribery, holding that procedural lapses in contraband seizure do not amount to a criminal offence, though it may attract departmental action.

Justice A. Badharudeen said the case arose from a 2020 incident involving the seizure of four bottles of foreign liquor and an alleged demand of ₹1 lakh bribe.

Finding no prima facie evidence of corruption or conspiracy, the Court held the proceedings legally unsustainable and noted they appeared aimed at delaying the officer’s promotion.

[Ratheesh K G v State of Kerala and Anr]