A surprise check by the sleuths of the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) at the RTA checkpoint in Pondurthi of Bhiknoor mandal, Kamareddy district, led to the seizure of ₹52,000 cash and the unearthing of a suspected extortion network involving government officials and private agents.
The raid was carried out on Wednesday morning, during which ₹16,000 was found in the possession of Assistant Motor Vehicle Inspector (AMVI) Sam Richardson. An additional ₹9,000 was recovered from a private agent identified as G. Shiva Kumar, while another ₹4,000 was discovered concealed inside a file. Upon further inspection, officials recovered ₹23,000 from the checkpoint, believed to be cash collected through illegal means.
The ACB said that drivers passing through the checkpoint were found offering cash payments to ensure hassle-free passage, indicating the presence of a well-established and systematic extortion practice.
Officials further observed that five unauthorised private individuals had been roped in to assist RTA staff at the checkpoint, with four of them present at the time of the raid. It was found that the officials were deliberately neglecting their responsibilities, allowing agents to stop vehicles and extort illegal payments from drivers and vehicle owners.
The ACB stated that a detailed report will be submitted to the government, recommending disciplinary and legal action against the personnel.
Citizens have been advised to report any bribe demands by public servants through the ACB’s toll-free number 1064. Complaints can also be made via WhatsApp on 9440446106, Facebook – Telangana ACB, or X – @TelanganaACB, with the assurance that the identities of complainants will be kept confidential.
Published – July 16, 2025 07:35 pm IST
