Bettiah: Three members of the Panther Police Unit posted at Bettiah City Police Station were arrested late on Saturday night after allegedly extorting money from residents while under the influence of alcohol. The arrests were made on the orders of Superintendent of Police Dr Shaurya Suman, following reports that the officers were drunk and harassing people in the Sagar Pokhara area.
According to police sources, a tip-off was received around 12:35 a.m. about three policemen extorting money during night patrol. Acting swiftly, a special team led by City Police Station head Nitin Kumar raided the location and found the accused in an inebriated condition, allegedly threatening local residents. A breathalyser test confirmed alcohol consumption.
The arrested personnel have been identified as constables Bablu Kumar of Nawada district, Sipin Kumar Yadav of Banka district, and Suryakant Nirala of Gaya district. All three were deployed with the Panther Police for night patrol duties in the city area.
Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Vivek Deep said an FIR has been filed under relevant sections of the Bihar Prohibition and Excise Act and for attempted extortion. The accused have been sent to judicial custody, and a departmental inquiry is underway.
Superintendent of Police Dr Suman stressed that the law applies equally to everyone, including those in uniform. “Anyone in police uniform who violates the law will not be spared. The prohibition law applies equally to all,” he said, adding that any laxity in enforcing prohibition or controlling crime will not be tolerated.
