Patna: The Vigilance Investigation Bureau has arrested a senior clerk and an alleged middleman at the Begusarai District Transport Office (DTO) for allegedly accepting a bribe in exchange for facilitating a vehicle transfer.
Officials said the accused were identified as Sanjay Kumar, a senior clerk at the DTO office, and Shivanand, who allegedly acted as a private middleman in the transaction. Both were caught during a trap operation conducted by the Vigilance Bureau.
Bribe Allegedly Sought for Vehicle Transfer
According to the Vigilance Bureau, the complainant had been visiting the DTO office repeatedly to complete the transfer process of a vehicle.
During this period, the accused allegedly demanded Rs 6,000 to process the work. The complainant later approached the Vigilance Investigation Bureau and filed a formal complaint regarding the alleged demand for a bribe.
Vigilance Team Conducted Verification
After receiving the complaint, the Vigilance Bureau conducted a verification exercise and found the allegations to be prima facie correct, officials said.
A special trap team led by a Deputy Superintendent of Police was subsequently formed to carry out the operation.
As part of the plan, the complainant was provided with chemically treated currency notes, which were later handed over to the accused during the transaction.
Accused Caught During Trap Operation
Officials said the Vigilance team, already stationed near the spot, immediately apprehended both accused after the money was allegedly accepted.
During the verification process conducted after the arrest, the hand-wash test reportedly turned pink, indicating contact with the chemically treated notes used in the trap operation.
FIR Registered in Patna
The Vigilance Investigation Bureau has registered a case against both accused at the Vigilance Police Station in Patna under Case No. 63/26.
Officials said the accused would be produced before the Special Vigilance Court. Further investigation into the matter is underway.
Anti-Corruption Drive Continues
The operation in Begusarai is part of the state’s continuing anti-corruption campaign targeting bribery and illegal transactions in government offices.
Residents and applicants visiting government departments have often raised concerns over the alleged role of middlemen in processing official work, particularly in transport and revenue offices.
