Aurangabad: The Vigilance Department on Wednesday caught Sub-Inspector (SI) Umesh Ram of Nagar Police Station red-handed while accepting a bribe of Rs 20,000. Although recently transferred to Nalanda district, he had not yet been relieved from his posting in Aurangabad.
According to vigilance officials, the action was taken on the basis of a written complaint filed by advocate Rajesh Kumar Sinha, a resident of Viratpur Mohalla in Ward 23. Sinha alleged that SI Ram had demanded money in exchange for returning seized LPG cylinders.
Following the complaint, a vigilance team reached Aurangabad and set a trap. SI Umesh Ram was caught in the act of taking the bribe and was immediately taken to the Circuit House, where further formalities are being completed.
Bribe Linked to Gas Cylinder Case
The matter relates to a CHP branch of a gas agency run from Sinha’s residence under the registration of his wife, Seema Kumari Ambasht. Ward councillor Aarti Srivastava had earlier complained to the Sub-Divisional Officer regarding irregularities in the CHP operations.
Subsequently, a raid was conducted at Sinha’s house under the leadership of the Block Supply Officer of Kutumba block, during which a vehicle was found carrying 20 filled and 60 empty LPG cylinders of Bharat and HP brands. As per rules, only seven filled cylinders or 100 kg of LPG can be kept in a CHP branch.
On the basis of the raid, a case (No. 200/25) was registered at Nagar Police Station, with SI Umesh Ram appointed as the investigating officer.
Sinha alleged that the customers had left empty cylinders at his house as per convenience and he only wanted them returned. However, SI Ram allegedly demanded Rs 20,000 to release the cylinders.
Official Action Underway
After his arrest, Ram was interrogated and his involvement in the bribery case has been confirmed. He has been booked under relevant sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act and further investigation is in progress.
