In a dramatic anti-corruption operation that underscores the ongoing battle against graft in Karnataka, officials from the Lokayukta police have apprehended a senior engineer from the Karnataka Urban Water Supply and Drainage Board (KUWSDB) while he was allegedly accepting a bribe of ₹1 lakh.
The Sting Operation Unfolds
The accused, identified as Suresh Babu, an executive engineer stationed at the KUWSDB office in Bengaluru's Mallathahalli, was caught red-handed during a meticulously planned sting operation. According to Lokayukta authorities, the bribe was demanded in connection with official work related to the water board's operations.
How the Corruption Web Was Unraveled
The investigation began when a complainant approached the Lokayukta police, alleging that Babu had demanded illegal gratification to process and approve certain official documents. Acting swiftly on the tip-off, the anti-corruption wing set up an elaborate trap to catch the official in the act.
The sequence of events that led to the arrest:
- The complainant filed a formal complaint with the Lokayukta police
- Investigators verified the corruption allegations and obtained necessary permissions
- A trap was set using marked currency notes totaling ₹1 lakh
- The accused was apprehended immediately after accepting the bribe money
- Evidence was collected and due legal procedures were followed
Evidence Collection and Legal Proceedings
Following the successful trap operation, Lokayukta officials conducted a thorough search and recovered the marked currency notes from Babu's possession. The evidence was meticulously documented, and the accused was taken into custody for further interrogation and legal proceedings.
This case highlights the continued vigilance of Karnataka's anti-corruption authorities in their efforts to maintain transparency and integrity in public service departments.
Broader Implications for Governance
The arrest of a senior water board official raises serious questions about corruption in public works departments and underscores the importance of robust anti-corruption mechanisms. Such operations serve as a strong deterrent to other public officials who might consider engaging in corrupt practices.
The KUWSDB, responsible for critical urban water supply infrastructure across Karnataka, plays a vital role in public health and urban development. Incidents of corruption within such essential service departments can have far-reaching consequences on public trust and service delivery.
