Kottayam (Kerala): An investigation has been launched into allegations that retired senior police officer Tomin J Thachankary unauthorisedly displayed official star insignia—symbols of active-duty rank—on his private vehicle. State Police Chief Ravada A Chandrasekhar has directed the Kottayam District Police Chief (SP) to submit a detailed report on the matter.

The incident came to light after Mathrubhumi News reported that Thachankary arrived at a Kottayam court in a car featuring the official stars near the number plate. When the violation was pointed out by onlookers and the media, attempts were reportedly made to hastily cover the insignia before the vehicle was moved from the premises.

Reports suggest that Thachankary, who retired three years ago, has allegedly continued to use the star-marked vehicle in various locations. Furthermore, the Special Branch is investigating claims that he is still using a mobile number from the official police series. While police numbers are typically managed by BSNL, the number in question is reportedly with a private provider, leading to an inquiry into whether the official number was illegally ported after his retirement.