Probe launched after accidental firing at Pathanamthitta AR Camp

The Pathanamthitta District Police have launched an investigation into an incident in which a firearm was accidentally discharged during an inspection at the Armed Reserve (AR) police camp.

Confirming the development, District Police Chief V.G. Vinod Kumar said that the firearm was being inspected prior to being dispatched with officials assigned to escort a cash transfer from the Reserve Bank of India to the State Bank of India’s Koipram branch. The incident occurred on Thursday afternoon while a head constable from the Armoury Wing was examining the weapon.

A major tragedy was averted as the firearm was pointed to the ground at the time of discharge.

“Without realising the weapon was loaded, the official proceeded with the inspection, leading to the accidental firing of a round. We are investigating whether there was a lapse on the part of the official who handed over the firearm,” the District Police Chief said.