ACB nabs 2, searches for retired I-T inspector in 50k bribe case

Rajkot: The anti-corruption bureau (ACB) registered a case against three persons, including a retired income tax inspector, for allegedly demanding and accepting a bribe to clear arrears bills.Two accused — Ravi Kumar Jangid (38), assistant accounts officer at the finance ministry's Zonal Accounts Office, and Akshay Vagadia (33), a contingent peon at the income tax office — have been arrested.ACB officials said the accused allegedly demanded a 20% bribe, about Rs 80,000, on an arrears bill of Rs 4 lakh. After negotiations, the amount was settled at Rs 50,000, with Rs 5,000 paid in advance. The complainant approached ACB before paying the remaining Rs 45,000.A trap was laid on Jan 30 opposite the income tax office. During the operation, Jangid was caught after having a conversation with retired inspector Shailesh Chauhan, who allegedly arranged the bribe. Vagadia was caught accepting the Rs 45,000.The ACB is currently searching for Chauhan, a resident of Bhuj who retired about two years ago after serving in Rajkot.