BATHINDA — In a high-profile crackdown on corruption within law enforcement, the Punjab Vigilance Bureau’s Mohali Flying Squad executed a multi-hour raid on the Bathinda Cyber Crime Police Station, resulting in the apprehension of a Sub-Inspector and a Constable.
The operation, which unfolded at the cyber cell facility housed within the Sadar Police Station building, culminated in the two personnel being caught red-handed while allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs. 1 lakh. Following the operation, both accused were swiftly transported to Mohali for intensive interrogation.
Case Background & Complainant’s Ordeal
The vigilance operation was launched following a formal complaint filed by Ritu Rani, a local resident. According to Rani, local police officers had been aggressively demanding illegal gratification to protect her son from arrest amid a private dispute involving him and a young girl.
Subjected to sustained harassment by the officers, Rani turned to the Punjab Vigilance Bureau for intervention. Crucially, the complainant submitted an incriminating audio recording capturing the officers demanding the bribe.
After verifying the authenticity of the audio evidence, the Mohali Flying Squad devised a strategic trap. The operation successfully cornered the station officer and the SHO’s reader (constable) as they accepted the marked Rs. 1 lakh bribe.
Investigation Expands
While the primary suspects are in custody, the vigilance team is actively probing the wider chain of command.
-
The SHO’s Role: Investigators are currently scrutinizing the local Station House Officer (SHO) to determine any direct or indirect complicity. Officials stated that appropriate legal measures will be initiated against the SHO if evidence links them to the extortion scheme.
-
Legal Framework: A formal case under the relevant provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act has been registered, and forensic analysis of the seized digital evidence is underway.
Expressing relief, Ritu Rani extended her gratitude to Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and the Vigilance Bureau, noting that swift accountability restores public faith in institutional integrity. The Vigilance Bureau has assured that further arrests or charges will depend on disclosures made during the ongoing investigation.
Leave a Reply