Assistant Sub-Inspector Arrested for Bribery in Power Theft Investigation
In a significant anti-corruption operation, an assistant sub-inspector (ASI) was arrested on Tuesday in Rudrapur, Udham Singh Nagar district, for allegedly demanding and accepting a bribe of Rs 15,000 to settle a power theft case. The arrest underscores ongoing efforts to combat corruption within law enforcement agencies.
Details of the Alleged Bribery Scheme
Officials revealed that the accused, identified as Anwar Ahmad, was investigating a power theft case registered at the Gadarpur police station. According to reports, a resident of Dineshpur approached the Vigilance Sector in Haldwani, alleging that ASI Ahmad had been persistently demanding money to close the case. The complainant claimed that the ASI had been pressuring him for several days under the guise of conducting the investigation.
Vigilance Team's Trap and Arrest
Following a preliminary verification that confirmed the validity of the complaint, the vigilance team orchestrated a meticulous trap. They caught ASI Anwar Ahmad red-handed while he was accepting the bribe amount. He was immediately taken into custody, and further legal proceedings have been initiated. Officials emphasized that this action is part of a broader crackdown on corrupt practices.
Departmental Actions and Official Statements
In response to the incident, Udham Singh Nagar SSP Ajay Ganpati suspended Anwar Ahmad and ordered a comprehensive departmental enquiry. SSP Ganpati stated, "We are committed to reinforcing the state's zero-tolerance policy against corruption. Such actions will not be tolerated, and we will ensure strict accountability." The ASI was currently posted at the Dineshpur police station at the time of his arrest.
This case highlights the challenges of corruption in public services and the proactive measures being taken by vigilance authorities. It serves as a reminder of the legal consequences for those who abuse their positions for personal gain.