In a decisive crackdown on graft, the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Corruption Organisation (ACO) on Tuesday successfully conducted two separate trap operations, leading to the arrest of three government officials allegedly caught red-handed while accepting bribes. The synchronized actions took place in the districts of Bareilly and Mirzapur, underscoring a heightened drive against corruption across state departments.
DGP's Directive Spurs Action Against Graft
The operations were executed as part of a broader campaign intensified under the directives of Director General of Police (DGP) Rajeev Krishna. The DGP has instructed all field units of the ACO to ramp up vigilance and take strict action against corrupt practices within government offices. Tuesday's traps are a direct result of this renewed focus on cleansing the system.
Bareilly Trap: Cop Demanded Bribe for Bail
In the first incident in Bareilly, the ACO unit acted on a formal complaint lodged by Subhash Sharma, a resident of Alampur Jafrabad. Sharma alleged that Inspector Arun Kumar Yadav, who is posted at the Anti-Power Theft Police Station in Bareilly, had demanded a bribe of Rs 5,000. The illicit payment was reportedly solicited in exchange for facilitating bail in a case registered against the complainant.
The ACO team, operating under the supervision of Inspector Jitendra Singh, laid a meticulous trap. As predicted, Inspector Yadav was apprehended on the spot while accepting the marked currency notes. He was immediately taken into custody, marking a significant catch for the anti-corruption wing.
Mirzapur Sting: Power Corporation Staff Caught
In a parallel and unrelated operation in Mirzapur, the ACO netted two employees of the Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (UPPCL). The complaint in this case was filed by Neeraj Kumar Gupta from Sonbhadra. Gupta accused the UPPCL personnel of demanding a bribe of Rs 30,000 to illegally modify an electricity bill.
A trap was organized under Inspector Anil Kumar Chaurasia. The team successfully caught the accused—identified as Javed Ahmad (TG-2/SSO) and contractual lineman Ashok Kumar Bharti—in the act of accepting the bribe money. Both individuals were found in possession of the illicit cash and were arrested on the spot.
A Clear Message Against Corruption
These coordinated stings send a strong message about the state's zero-tolerance policy towards corruption. The arrest of a police inspector and power utility staff highlights that the crackdown spans multiple public-facing departments. The ACO's proactive approach, driven by top-level directives, demonstrates a commitment to addressing public grievances and rooting out malpractice.
The successful operations relied on precise planning and the courage of the complainants who came forward. All three arrested officials now face legal proceedings under the Prevention of Corruption Act. Such actions are expected to build public confidence and deter other government employees from engaging in corrupt activities.
