Punjab Vigilance Bureau Nabs ASI in Patiala Bribery Sting Operation
The Punjab Vigilance Bureau made a significant arrest on Wednesday, capturing an assistant sub-inspector (ASI) red-handed while he was accepting a bribe of Rs 20,000. The incident occurred at the counter intelligence office in Patiala district, underscoring the state's intensified crackdown on corruption.
Details of the Arrest and Accused
The arrested ASI has been identified as Harpal Singh. His apprehension is part of a broader, ongoing drive by the Punjab government to root out corruption from its administrative and law enforcement agencies. According to an official spokesperson from the vigilance bureau, the arrest followed a formal complaint lodged by a resident of tehsil Naba in Patiala district.
The case revolves around an enquiry conducted in 2023 regarding the involvement of the complainant's relative in the "Khalistani movement". The accused ASI allegedly summoned the complainant to the counter intelligence office and falsely accused him of being involved in the movement alongside his relative. Exploiting this situation, Harpal Singh demanded a bribe of Rs 20,000 in exchange for a favourable enquiry report, which the complainant needed for international travel purposes.
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
Unwilling to succumb to illegal demands, the complainant proactively approached the Vigilance Bureau range in Patiala. After conducting a preliminary enquiry, a specialized vigilance team set up a trap to catch the ASI in the act. The operation was successful, with Harpal Singh arrested red-handed while accepting the bribe money from the complainant. The arrest was made in the presence of two official witnesses to ensure transparency and legal validity.
Following the arrest, a case has been registered against the accused under the Prevention of Corruption Act at the Vigilance Bureau police station in Patiala. The spokesperson confirmed that further investigation is currently in progress to uncover any additional details or potential accomplices in this corruption scandal.
This incident highlights the vigilance bureau's commitment to combating graft and upholding integrity within Punjab's law enforcement. It serves as a stern warning to other officials engaged in corrupt practices, reinforcing the state's zero-tolerance policy towards bribery and misconduct.
