Irrigation AE Caught in ACB Trap
An Assistant Engineer (AE) of the Irrigation Department at Ashwaraopeta, Srinivas, was caught by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) while allegedly accepting a bribe of ₹2 lakh from a farmer. The trap was laid after the farmer approached ACB officials and complained that the engineer had demanded money to grant official permission for transporting black soil from the Donthikunta tank.
According to ACB officials, Srinivas allegedly insisted on receiving ₹2 lakh before issuing the required approval. Based on the complaint, the bureau conducted a planned operation and caught the official red-handed while he was allegedly accepting the bribe amount. The tainted cash was reportedly recovered during the operation.
Following the arrest, ACB officials conducted further inquiries and initiated legal proceedings against the accused under the provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act. Officials are also examining whether any other employees or intermediaries were involved in the alleged demand or acceptance of illegal gratification.
The Anti-Corruption Bureau reiterated its appeal to the public not to pay bribes and instead report any demand for illegal payments through its official complaint mechanisms. The investigation is continuing, and further action will be taken based on the findings of the inquiry.
