The employee signed out an unmarked Police van, overriding an earlier booking for a multi-agency search and rescue exercise. He then used the van to take a civilian friend on an overnight fishing and camping trip. This deprived the exercise attendees of their transportation and equipment, created logistical issues and forced Police to make alternate arrangements at short notice.
Later that night emergency services were called to the van in a no camping, no fishing area after a gas cooker caught fire at the back of the van and caused an explosion. No one was hurt and the van sustained no damage.
Police found there was insufficient evidence to prosecute the employee for conversion of the van. However, they agreed that the employee had been dishonest and that his actions were not in line with Police policy and amounted to serious misconduct. The employee resigned prior to an employment process being concluded.
The Authority is satisfied with the Police investigation.
IPCA:25-28031