New Salem Police Commissioner prioritises action against drugs, corruption

A.G. Babu assumed charge as the new Commissioner of Police of Salem City here on Wednesday (October 7, 2026). His predecessor, K. Joshi Nirmal Kumar, has been transferred to Chennai.

After taking charge, Mr. Babu told reporters that eradicating drug abuse in the city would be a priority. Awareness programmes would be conducted among school and college students on the ill-effects of drugs, he said. He added that continuous action would be taken against rowdies and that the safety of women and children would be given priority. “Illegal activities will be prevented,” he said.

Mr. Babu said a special unit had been formed to address complaints of corruption in the Police Department. WhatsApp numbers had been displayed at all police stations for the public to report complaints. “If anyone demands a bribe at a police station, the public can report it through the WhatsApp number concerned. Appropriate action will be taken,” he said.

Meanwhile, N. Devarani, who was serving in Chennai Vigilance, assumed charge as the new Deputy Inspector-General (DIG) of Salem on Wednesday. She succeeds Santosh Hadimani, who has been transferred.