Guna SP Removed Amidst Major Bribery Scandal Involving Crore Cash Seizure
In a significant development, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has ordered the removal of Guna Superintendent of Police Ankit Soni following explosive allegations of a Rs 20 lakh bribery scandal. The controversy centers around local police officers who are accused of accepting the substantial bribe after seizing nearly one crore rupees in cash from a businessman's vehicle.
Leadership Changes and Investigation Intensifies
After SP Ankit Soni was removed from his position and reassigned as Assistant Inspector General at Police Headquarters, Hitika Vasal, Commandant of the 15th Battalion in Indore, has been appointed as the new SP of Guna district. This leadership change comes as the investigation into the alleged corruption scandal gains momentum.
The Controversial Incident Unfolds
The controversy originated from an incident on March 19, when police personnel reportedly stopped an SUV during routine checking near the Ruthiyai outpost area. During a search of the vehicle, authorities allegedly discovered approximately one crore rupees in cash belonging to a cumin trader from Gujarat.
Instead of following proper legal protocols by initiating formal action or informing the Income Tax Department, sources allege that police officers struck a "deal" with the trader. According to these allegations, the police retained Rs 20 lakh for themselves while returning the remaining Rs 80 lakh along with the vehicle, allowing the trader to depart without facing appropriate legal consequences.
Social Media Exposure and Escalation
The matter escalated dramatically when discussions about the alleged transaction began circulating on social media platforms. Further investigation revealed that the Dharnavada police reportedly returned the Rs 20 lakh after receiving a phone call from an IPS officer based in Gujarat.
As soon as the issue came to public attention, Deputy Inspector General Amit Sanghi reached Guna late at night and immediately initiated a comprehensive probe into the allegations. Acting on the directions of Inspector General Arvind Saxena, authorities have suspended four police personnel involved in the incident.
Suspended Personnel and Ongoing Investigation
The suspended officers include Dharnavada Station House Officer Prabhat Katare, along with Assistant Sub-Inspector Sajid Hussain, Head Constable Devendra Singh Sikwar, and Constable Sundar Raman. The investigation continues to examine all aspects of the alleged bribery scandal and the subsequent handling of the substantial cash seizure.
This case has raised serious questions about police conduct and accountability in Madhya Pradesh, particularly regarding the proper handling of large cash seizures and potential corruption within law enforcement agencies. The state government's swift action in removing the district SP and suspending involved personnel demonstrates the seriousness with which authorities are treating these allegations.
