What began as a late-night controversy over a liquor bottle has now ended with suspensions.

Two Kerala Police personnel have been suspended after a chemical analysis of their blood samples confirmed they had consumed alcohol while on duty during a FIFA World Cup final screening in Idukki district.

The suspended officials are Sub-Inspector Roy Sukumaran and Civil Police Officer (CPO) Jijo Antony, both attached to Karimannoor Police Station. Ernakulam Range Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Yatheesh Chandra issued the suspension orders based on a report submitted by Idukki District Police Chief A Naseem.

The incident dates back to around midnight on July 18, when the two officers were deployed for law and order duty at a public screening of the FIFA World Cup final in Mangattukavala, Thodupuzha.

Local CPM leaders allegedly stopped the officers after suspecting they were under the influence of alcohol and claimed to have found a liquor bottle inside the police vehicle.

An initial medical examination did not establish intoxication, prompting the police to register a case against around 200 people in connection with the confrontation.

However, blood samples collected from the officers were later subjected to chemical analysis, which confirmed alcohol consumption.

Police officials said an internal inquiry has now been ordered against the suspended personnel. The findings of the probe will determine any further disciplinary action.

The controversy has also reached the Kerala High Court, where CPM leaders have alleged police excesses over the incident. The High Court has sought a report from the police.