Bagalkote: In yet another crackdown on corruption within the police force, a constable in Karnataka’s Bagalkote district was caught red-handed by Lokayukta officials while allegedly accepting a bribe in connection with an illegal detention case. The accused, identified as Santosh Biradar, was apprehended during a trap operation after he allegedly demanded money for the release of a detained individual and his vehicle.

Complaint triggers Lokayukta action

The operation was initiated following a formal complaint filed by Muttappa Hullappa Nayakar, a 40-year-old farmer from Belaganti village in Kerur, located in Badami taluk. In his complaint, Nayakar alleged that a man had been picked up from a petrol pump on suspicion of involvement in a gambling case and brought to the Kerur police station.

According to the complaint, the individual was held in custody for nearly two days without any official documentation or legal procedure being followed. The detention, Nayakar claimed, was unlawful and done without registering a proper case or producing the detainee before a magistrate, raising serious concerns about procedural violations.

Bribe demanded for release

The complaint further stated that the detainee was released only after an oral agreement was reached between the police and the complainant. Initially, a sum of Rs 2 lakh was allegedly demanded for the release. While the detainee was eventually let go, his motorcycle was retained at the police station, reportedly to exert pressure for payment.

Subsequently, the bribe amount was reduced to Rs 1.7 lakh, which was demanded for the release of the seized vehicle. Feeling aggrieved, Nayakar approached the Lokayukta authorities and provided details of the alleged bribery demand.

Trap laid, constable caught red-handed

Acting swiftly on the complaint, Lokayukta officials organised a trap to catch the accused in the act. During the operation, constable Santosh Biradar was caught red-handed while allegedly accepting Rs 1.7 lakh from the complainant.

Officials revealed that the bribe acceptance was not an isolated act and was allegedly carried out with the knowledge and approval of a Police Sub-Inspector (PSI). The PSI is said to have conveyed consent over a phone call, indicating possible involvement of higher-ranking personnel in the alleged misconduct.

PSI also arrested

Following the successful trap operation, the Lokayukta team proceeded to arrest both the constable and the PSI (Law and Order) linked to the case. Authorities stated that further investigation is underway to determine the extent of involvement and whether more officials were complicit in the matter.

The operation was conducted under the supervision of the Lokayukta Superintendent of Police (SP) in Bagalkote. Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Suresh Reddy MS led the team that executed the trap and ensured the arrest of the accused officials.

Growing concerns over police misconduct

This incident adds to a growing list of cases in Karnataka where law enforcement personnel have been caught engaging in corrupt practices. Allegations of illegal detention and bribery not only undermine public trust in the police system but also highlight systemic issues that require urgent attention.

The use of illegal custody and coercion to extract money is a serious violation of both legal procedures and human rights. Such cases often prompt calls for stricter monitoring, accountability mechanisms, and internal vigilance within police departments.

Investigation underway

Lokayukta officials have confirmed that further details will emerge as the investigation progresses. Authorities are likely to examine call records, financial transactions, and other evidence to build a strong case against the accused.

The arrests send a strong message about the state’s zero-tolerance approach towards corruption, particularly within public service institutions. However, repeated instances of such misconduct indicate the need for deeper reforms and stricter enforcement of accountability measures.

As the probe continues, more information is expected regarding the role of other officials and whether similar practices were being carried out in the region.