CBI detains Enforcement Directorate officials in bribery case

New Delhi, 23 October (PTI) — The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has apprehended two officials from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) office in Lucknow for their alleged involvement in accepting a bribe of Rs 5 lakh. The detained individuals include Enforcement Officer Deepak Kumar and Head Constable Manoj Dwivedi, who is currently on deputation from the Central Reserve Police Force.

The arrests follow the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against Dwivedi and other unidentified ED personnel based on a complaint lodged by a member of the public. According to a spokesperson from the CBI, the complaint alleged that Dwivedi demanded a sum of money to assist the complainant’s father regarding an ongoing ED investigation linked to an alleged bank fraud case, for which the father had received two summons in August and September of this year.

Following the filing of the FIR, the CBI set up a sting operation, leading to the head constable's arrest while he was allegedly accepting the bribe on behalf of Enforcement Officer Deepak Kumar. The CBI spokesperson confirmed that both individuals are now in custody.

This incident highlights concerns regarding corruption within enforcement agencies tasked with investigating financial crimes in India. The Enforcement Directorate plays a crucial role in addressing money laundering and other financial misconduct, making such allegations particularly troubling for the agency's credibility.

The Investigative agency’s actions have garnered attention as they continue their efforts to combat corruption within public institutions. The CBI's proactive approach in apprehending these officials reflects its commitment to maintaining integrity within India's law enforcement framework.