Bhubaneswar, June 11: An Excise Sub-Inspector and an Assistant Sub-Inspector posted at Pattamundai Excise Police Station in Kendrapara district were suspended on Thursday after allegations of third-degree torture and physical assault surfaced against them.

The suspended officers have been identified as SI Chhayakanta Nayak and ASI Pradeep Mallik. The suspension order was issued by the Excise Commissioner following a preliminary inquiry into the incident.

According to sources, the controversy began when a youth identified as Binod allegedly informed excise officials about illegal liquor activities in Baradia village under the Rajnagar area. Acting on the tip-off, SI Nayak and his team conducted a raid in the village.

During the operation, Binod reportedly began recording the raid on his mobile phone. The excise personnel allegedly objected to being filmed and detained him. The youth has alleged that he was subsequently assaulted and subjected to third-degree torture by members of the raiding team.

After the incident, Binod approached Rajnagar Police Station and lodged a formal complaint against six persons, including the suspended SI. He accused the officials of physical assault and unlawful treatment during the raid.

Based on the complaint, police registered a case and initiated an investigation. Officials said the Excise Commissioner took disciplinary action after a preliminary assessment indicated prima facie grounds for suspension pending a detailed inquiry.

Police are now recording statements of witnesses and examining the circumstances surrounding the raid and the alleged assault. Further investigation is underway to determine the extent of responsibility of the officials involved.

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