Bengaluru Excise Officials Caught in Major Bribery Sting Operation
In a significant crackdown on corruption, Lokayukta police in Bengaluru have arrested top officials from the Excise Department. The officers were allegedly demanding a massive bribe to clear liquor-related licenses.
Officers Trapped While Accepting Bribe Money
The Lokayukta police conducted a carefully planned operation on Saturday. They caught the accused officials red-handed while accepting bribe money. The arrested individuals include Jagadeesh Naik, who serves as Excise Deputy Commissioner for Bengaluru Urban District–8. Thammanna K M, Superintendent of Excise, was also taken into custody.
An Excise constable named Sri Lakkappa Gani faces accusations as well. Police say he played a role in facilitating the illegal transaction.
Complaint Reveals ₹80 Lakh Demand
The investigation began after Lakshminarayana filed a formal complaint. He alleged that Excise officials demanded ₹80 lakh from him. This money was supposedly required to facilitate the issuance of two important licenses.
The licenses in question were for a bar and a microbrewery. According to the complainant, officials gave him clear assurances. They promised the licenses would be cleared only after receiving the full payment.
First Installment of ₹25 Lakh Intercepted
During the trap operation, police intercepted ₹25 lakh in cash. This amount is believed to represent the first installment of the total bribe. Officers caught the accused while they were actually accepting this money.
"Both AGO-1 and AGO-2 were secured along with another employee," stated the Lokayukta police. "The employee was carrying the bribe amount at the time of the operation."
Legal Action and Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have registered a formal case under Section 7(a) of the Prevention of Corruption Act. This is the amended version from 2018. The investigation remains active and ongoing.
Police officials confirm they are pursuing several leads. They plan to conduct further searches in connection with this case. Investigators also want to determine if other officers might be involved.
"Further investigation is in progress to ascertain the involvement of other officers, if any," said Lokayukta police representatives. "Searches are also likely to be conducted in connection with the case."
The Lokayukta police have demonstrated their commitment to fighting corruption. This operation sends a strong message to government officials across departments. The case highlights ongoing challenges in eliminating bribery from licensing processes.
