Bemetara: The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) continues its crackdown on corruption in Chhattisgarh. In the latest incident, Head Constable Ajay Lahre, posted at the Than Khamharia police station in Bemetara district, was arrested red-handed while accepting a bribe of ₹15,000. The accused policeman had demanded the bribe in exchange for not taking legal action against a villager.
Bribe Demanded by Threatening Action Under Section 151
According to reports, Durgesh Patel, a resident of Khairjhitikala, lodged a complaint with the ACB stating that a dispute had arisen between two parties in the village regarding the felling of trees. Head Constable Ajay Lahre was threatening to initiate proceedings against him under Section 151 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) in connection with this matter. The complainant alleged that a bribe of ₹20,000 was initially demanded to avoid such action. After negotiations, the deal was settled at ₹15,000, and the policeman was constantly pressuring him to make the payment.
ACB Lays Trap; Arrests Him While Accepting Bribe
Distressed by the bribe demand, Durgesh Patel reported the matter to the Anti-Corruption Bureau. After a preliminary investigation confirmed the validity of the complaint, the ACB team executed a planned trap operation. On Friday, the complainant handed over ₹15,000 (treated with a chemical substance) to Head Constable Ajay Lahre. As soon as the accused accepted the bribe money, the ACB team, which was already present at the scene, apprehended him red-handed.
Commotion at the Police Station
The ACB’s action caused a stir within the Khamharia police station premises. The team immediately took control of the premises and began examining necessary documents and evidence. As a precautionary measure, the movement of outsiders within the station was restricted during the operation. ACB officials have registered a case against the accused under the Prevention of Corruption Act and have initiated further proceedings.
ACB Begins Interrogation
The ACB is now investigating whether any other police personnel or officers played a role in this bribery case. The accused Head Constable is being interrogated, and departmental proceedings against him may also be initiated. Amidst the ongoing actions by the ACB across the state, this arrest is being viewed as a major move against corruption within the police department.
