Revenue official caught accepting Rs 6.4 lakh in bribe

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Saturday trapped and detained a senior revenue official for allegedly accepting a Rs 6.4 lakh bribe at his residence in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar in connection with alleged illegal sand excavation and transportation activities.

ACB SP Madhuri Kedar Kangane said the complaint was verified before the trap, and the official was caught accepting the money in the presence of panch witnesses. The Beed ACB unit carried out the operation at his residence. A case has been registered under sections 7 and 7A of the Prevention of Corruption Act at the Satara police station.

The complainant alleged the official demanded money to overlook illegal sand excavation and allow transportation. He had initially sought Rs 12 lakh and Rs 8 lakh was reportedly paid earlier. The accused then allegedly demanded the remaining Rs 4 lakh, along with additional money for allowing six tippers, to transport sand, taking the remaining amount to Rs 6.4 lakh.

After the trap, ACB officials seized cash, a cellphone, gold rings, and other items. Further investigation is under way, and a report will be sent to the state’s revenue department.