Tue May 06 15:13:22 UTC 2025: ## Kerala Forest Officer Transferred After Controversial Rapper Arrest Statements

**THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, May 6, 2025** – Kerala Forest Minister A.K. Saseendran has ordered the transfer of Kodanad forest range officer R. Atheesh following a preliminary inquiry into his handling of the recent arrest of rapper Hirandas Murali (alias Vedan). The inquiry found that Atheesh violated the code of conduct for government officials by releasing unverified information to the media during the ongoing investigation.

Specifically, Atheesh’s linking of the accused to Sri Lanka, a claim not yet officially confirmed, was deemed inappropriate and contrary to proper investigative procedures. The Minister stated that the Head of Forest Force has been directed to conduct a full investigation, with further action to be taken based on its findings. The transfer removes Atheesh from the Malayattoor forest division.

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