The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested the Branch Manager of Bank of Baroda’s Shikarpur Branch in Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh, for allegedly demanding and accepting a bribe of ₹1 lakh from a complainant. The arrest came after the accused was caught red-handed while encashing a signed bank cheque that he had insisted be used for the payment of the bribe.
Background of the Case
The CBI registered the case on December 11, 2024, following a written complaint. The complainant alleged that his wife had applied for a loan amounting to ₹80 lakh from the Bank of Baroda’s Shikarpur Branch. During the loan application process, the Branch Manager, who is a public servant, demanded an illegal gratification of ₹1 lakh to approve and sanction the loan.
The accused Branch Manager further insisted that the bribe be delivered through a signed bank cheque. He intended to withdraw the bribe amount himself, ensuring complete control over the transaction. This unusual method of demanding a bribe raised suspicion, leading the complainant to approach the CBI.
CBI’s Operation and Arrest
Acting on the complaint, the CBI laid a trap to catch the accused in the act. As part of the operation, the complainant provided a duly signed blank cheque to the Branch Manager as instructed. The accused later used this cheque to withdraw ₹1 lakh.
As soon as the transaction was completed, the CBI team apprehended the accused at the bank while recovering the bribe amount of ₹1 lakh from his possession. The successful trap not only confirmed the allegations but also secured material evidence of the crime.
Searches and Recovery
Following the arrest, the CBI conducted searches at the accused’s residential premises in Bulandshahr and Delhi. During the search operation at his Bulandshahr residence, the team discovered a pistol. The firearm was handed over to the local police at Thana Kotwali, Shikarpur, Bulandshahr, for further investigation and appropriate action.
Legal Proceedings
The accused Branch Manager has been presented before the Hon’ble Court of Special Judge, CBI, Court No. 2, Ghaziabad. The court will decide on the necessary legal actions, including remanding the accused into custody for further interrogation.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation is still underway to uncover additional details about the case. The CBI is examining whether there were any accomplices, other instances of bribery, or misuse of power by the accused. The agency is also exploring the possibility of additional financial irregularities linked to the accused.
The CBI’s prompt action and meticulous planning in this case underscore its commitment to combating corruption and holding public servants accountable for misuse of their authority.