Kochi: A routine stock check at a government-run liquor outlet in Kerala revealed a ₹6,600 shortfall, prompting a police investigation that led to the arrest of a 31-year-old man in Muvattupuzha.

Police arrested the accused, identified as Arun Babu, on Wednesday in connection with the alleged theft of six liquor bottles from a premium outlet operated by the Kerala State Beverages Corporation (KSBC).

The incident reportedly occurred on October 20, when the outlet's self-premium counter, situated on the first floor of the Athrassery Building along MC Road, was targeted sometime between 6.30 pm and 11 pm.

KSBC officials discovered the missing stock the following day, October 21, when they checked the inventory.  

The missing bottles spanned several liquor varieties. Two bottles of Amazing Premium Grain Vodka were allegedly taken, along with one bottle each of Bacardi Mango Chilli Original Rum, Old Monk White Classic Premium Rum, Royal Arms Premium VSOP Brandy and Kingfisher Ultra Max Premium Beer. Their combined value was ₹6,600.

Following a complaint from KSBC officials, Muvattupuzha police registered a first information report under Section 305(e) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for the theft of property belonging to a government agency.

Investigators are examining CCTV footage to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify anyone else who may have been involved.

Officials had earlier suspected that more than one person may have carried out the theft. The investigation is ongoing.