Bantwal: Checkpost official caught on camera accepting bribe

Daijiworld Media Network – Bantwal

Bantwal, Jul 31: An official from Ukkuda checkpost was caught on camera while accepting bribe from trucks which pass through the checkpost to Kerala.

The video footage of the official taking bribe was taken by the videographer and journalist of a media. In the video one can find the higher official of the checkpost indicating to the official incharge to open gate to collect money from the truck driver.

The official who became alert when the journalist recorded the video footage of accepting bribe, approached the journalist and started questioning him and also warned him of a complaint to Vittal police. Meanwhile the media person also called Vittal police and requested him to provide security.

Police who arrived at the spot confirmed the media person’s identity. The official was shaken by this and asked the journalist to sort out the problem through compromise.

Usually the checkpost gate is always open. It is said that the checkpost, belonging to the forest department, often makes way for illegal items and in return, the truck drivers pay bribe to the officials.

Despite knowing that this checkpost has been 'gateway' to illegal activities, no officials have taken action so far.

A 22-tyre truck which can carry load upto 35 tonnes passes daily in this route. As per the public works department, such huge trucks do not have permission to ply on this road. In this regard, neither the RTO nor the police officials have taken action.

Speaking to a media person, forest officer Sridhar said, "This issue has not come to my notice. From the past one year, I did not receive any complaint about illegal activities at the checkpost," he said, adding that he would investigate the matter.

Sources said that thought the checkpost gate is closed at night, the trucks are allowed to go without proper checking, on payment of bribe.