Coimbatore District Police refute claims of ‘orchestrated drownings’ in River Bhavani near Mettupalayam
The Coimbatore District (Rural) Police have categorically denied the allegations made by certain individuals regarding the supposed orchestrated drownings in River Bhavani near Vanabathrakaliamman Temple in Mettupalayam. These claims suggest that the incidents are not accidental, but rather the deliberate actions of criminals who drag people into the water and demand ransom from the victims’ relatives in exchange for retrieving the bodies.
In response to these rumors, the police issued a statement dismissing them as baseless. They emphasized that no such occurrences have been reported at the Mettupalayam police station to date. Actor K. Bhagyaraj had recently shared a post on ‘X’ discussing the mysterious and orchestrated deaths in River Bhavani, which prompted the police to address the issue.
According to the police, there have been a total of 20 accidental drowning cases in River Bhavani in 2022. In light of the loss of life due to these incidents, the Coimbatore District Police formed a specialized unit called Mettupalayam Life Guards on February 2, 2023. This unit, consisting of 10 NDRF/SDRF trained police personnel led by a sub-inspector, is tasked with patrolling the Bhavani River bank to prevent accidental drownings.
Thanks to the efforts of the Mettupalayam Life Guards, the number of accidental drownings in the river has significantly decreased. In 2023, there were only six cases reported, and so far in 2024, there have been no incidents. The police affirm that thorough investigations have been conducted in all reported cases from 2022 to 2023, and they have concluded that negligence or overconfidence were the primary causes of death in those instances.
Equipped with essential life-saving equipment such as life jackets, ropes, lifebuoys, headlights, and torches, the dedicated team is fully prepared to handle emergencies and rescue individuals trapped due to sudden rises in water levels. The police proudly announced that, to date, the Mettupalayam Life Guards have successfully saved 914 people who would have otherwise been in grave danger in River Bhavani. Additionally, the team has promptly rescued and provided counseling to 13 individuals who jumped into the river with suicidal intentions.
To minimize the risk of further tragedies, the police have identified 19 danger zones along the river bank. They are maintaining constant vigilance in these areas to ensure the safety of the public. Warning boards and surveillance cameras have also been installed to increase awareness and prevent any loss of life.
At this time, it is crucial to remind individuals struggling with suicidal thoughts that assistance is available. The State’s health helpline can be reached at 104, Tele-MANAS at 14416, and Sneha’s suicide prevention helpline at 044-24640050.
The Coimbatore District Police reaffirm their commitment to the well-being and safety of residents and visitors. They urge the public to disregard baseless rumors and rely on accurate information provided by the authorities. With the establishment of the Mettupalayam Life Guards and their diligent efforts, the Coimbatore District Police are working tirelessly to ensure that River Bhavani remains a safe and secure place for everyone.
