Thiruvananthapuram: In a major security breach, three car travellers entered the high-security zone of the Kerala Government Secretariat in the state capital on Friday evening, later claiming that they were misdirected by Google Maps.
Security personnel stationed at the Cantonment Gate — the fourth gate of the Secretariat complex — intercepted the vehicle at around 7.45 pm after it approached the restricted premises.
The occupants were immediately detained and taken for questioning given the highly sensitive nature of the location.
According to police sources, the travellers, believed to be natives of Kochi, told officers that they had been following directions provided by Google Maps while trying to reach a hotel in the city. However, the navigation system allegedly guided them towards the Secretariat area, leading them into the high-security government complex.
During questioning, the trio reportedly stated that they were actually heading towards Kazhakkoottam when the navigation confusion occurred. Police officials also suspected that the occupants might have consumed alcohol at the time of the incident.
Considering the strict security restrictions in force at the Kerala Government Secretariat, authorities treated the incident with caution. The three men were questioned and their identities and travel details were verified before further action was considered.
