In a significant crackdown on administrative corruption, the Karnataka Lokayukta police apprehended a police constable in Yadgir district while he was allegedly accepting an illegal gratification. The operation, which took place on Friday, highlights ongoing efforts by the state’s anti-corruption ombudsman to sanitize local law enforcement agencies.
Details of the Trap Operation
The accused officer has been identified as Mallikarjun, a police constable currently stationed at the Yadgir Town Police Station. According to official reports, the Lokayukta team orchestrated a “trap” following a formal complaint from a local citizen. The constable was caught red-handed while receiving a bribe of ₹10,000.
Investigators reveal that the money was allegedly demanded in exchange for a favorable outcome regarding a pending case. Specifically, Mallikarjun was accused of soliciting the funds to facilitate the release of a vehicle that had been seized in connection with a legal matter. This type of “settlement” bribe is frequently targeted by anti-corruption units looking to weed out petty bribery within the ranks.
Chronology of the Arrest
The complainant, unwilling to yield to the illegal demand, approached the Lokayukta officials earlier this week. Under the supervision of senior Lokayukta Superintendent of Police (SP) and local inspectors, a sting operation was meticulously planned. As the constable accepted the marked banknotes, the monitoring team moved in to secure the evidence.
Following the arrest, the Lokayukta police conducted preliminary documentation at the site. The currency notes were seized as primary evidence, and Mallikarjun was taken into custody for further interrogation. A case has been registered under various sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act.
Commitment to Transparency
The Yadgir incident serves as a stern warning to public servants across the region. Local authorities have reiterated their commitment to maintaining a transparent and accountable police force. “Such actions tarnish the image of the entire department. We encourage the public to come forward and report any such demands for bribes,” stated a senior official familiar with the investigation.
The accused is expected to be produced before the special court for Lokayukta cases, where further legal proceedings will determine the next steps in his prosecution. The department is also likely to initiate an internal departmental inquiry, which could lead to suspension or dismissal from service depending on the findings.
