Mangaluru: In a major crackdown on corruption within the police force, Kadri Traffic Police Constable Tasleem (CHC 322) was nabbed red-handed by the Lokayukta while accepting a bribe of ₹5,000 from a complainant. The trap was laid following a detailed complaint lodged by the victim, who accused the officer of demanding bribes in connection with a vehicle accident case.
The complainant’s father’s car had been involved in a minor accident with a scooter near Nanthur Circle. Although the case was registered at Kadri Traffic Station, Constable Tasleem allegedly demanded ₹5,000 for releasing the car documents. The bribe demand allegedly escalated to ₹50,000 over time, with threats and coercion tactics.
In a shocking twist, Tasleem reportedly made the complainant sign a release document without actually returning the vehicle and even confiscated his mobile phone. He then insisted on another ₹50,000 and the complainant’s original driving licence. Later, Tasleem is said to have instructed another constable, Vinod (CHC 451), to collect ₹30,000 to return the licence.
After being repeatedly harassed and extorted, the complainant sought help from the Mangaluru Lokayukta. Acting on the complaint, a trap was set. On July 10, Tasleem was apprehended while accepting ₹5,000 in marked notes.
The operation was executed under the leadership of SP (in-charge) Kumarachandra, with DySP Dr. Gyan P Kumar, Inspectors Suresh Kumar P, Bharathi G, Chandrashekhar K N, and other Lokayukta personnel.
An investigation is underway, and further action against all involved is expected.