In a significant crackdown on corruption within the police force, vigilance officials on Thursday arrested the officer-in-charge of Dasmantpur police station in Koraput district for allegedly taking a bribe. The arrest has sent shockwaves through the district, highlighting concerns about integrity in law enforcement.
The Bribe Trap and Arrest
Sukma Hansdah, the Inspector-in-Charge (IIC) of Dasmantpur police station, was apprehended red-handed by a team from the Vigilance department. The arrest followed a formal complaint lodged by a relative of an accused in a case registered at her police station. According to officials, Hansdah had demanded a sum of Rs 20,000 from the complainant. The money was allegedly requested in exchange for a crucial official action: producing the case diary before the court, a document essential for the consideration of bail for the accused.
Acting swiftly on the complaint, the Vigilance wing laid a meticulous trap. The operation culminated with Hansdah being caught in the act of accepting the bribe amount. The entire transaction took place inside the Dasmantpur police station itself, a detail that underscores the brazen nature of the alleged misconduct. The tainted cash was immediately recovered from her possession and seized as evidence.
Simultaneous Searches for Disproportionate Assets
The action did not stop at the arrest. In a move indicating a broader probe, vigilance teams conducted simultaneous searches at two locations linked to the arrested IIC. These searches were conducted from the angle of investigating disproportionate assets, suggesting investigators are looking into whether the official's wealth exceeds her known sources of income.
Rabindra Kumar Panda, the Superintendent of Police (Vigilance), confirmed the details of the case. "The IIC had demanded Rs 20,000 from the complainant to produce the case diary before the court," stated SP Panda. "Following the complaint, a case was registered and the IIC was arrested." Regarding the assets probe, he added, "More details regarding the disproportionate assets would be known once we complete our investigation."
Implications and Ongoing Investigation
This incident raises serious questions about corruption at the police station level and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals seeking justice. The fact that a senior police officer allegedly used her official position to extort money for performing a routine duty is a grave concern. The vigilance department's prompt action, based on a citizen's complaint, demonstrates a functional mechanism to tackle such malpractices.
The case remains under active investigation. While the bribery charge has led to an immediate arrest, the outcome of the disproportionate assets searches could potentially lead to more severe charges. The incident serves as a stern warning to public servants engaged in corrupt activities and reinforces the state's commitment to a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption in the administration and police force.
