Inspector on the run as Lokayukta looks for him after corruption allegations

In a shocking turn of events, Police Inspector Kumar, who was recently shortlisted for a Chief Minister's Gold Medal, has gone into hiding after learning about a Lokayukta raid targeting him. Inspector Kumar reportedly abandoned his official jeep at home before escaping.

 The raid is linked to allegations of harassment against civil contractor Channegowda and his family. It is claimed that Inspector Kumar exerted pressure on Channegowda to sell a ₹4 crore property for a significantly lower price. Channegowda's wife, a government employee, was also allegedly targeted by Kumar’s harassment.

Kumar is accused of filing a false case against Channegowda, pressuring him to register the property for a reduced amount. Evidence suggests that he previously sent goons to Channegowda's house to intimidate him, which Channegowda recorded on video. Inspector Kumar allegedly attempted to coerce the couple into selling the property at ₹60 lakh rather than its market value.

 In a related incident, it appears that Inspector Kumar, along with Head Constable Umesh, orchestrated visits to Channegowda's residence under the pretext of property inspections. On March 18, at approximately 3:25 PM, the head constable and another associate arrived at Channegowda’s house in a car. When questioned by Channegowda, they stated they would return with the necessary police approvals and subsequently fled the scene.

 In a simultaneous operation, Lokayukta officials targeted a private hotel in Nagarabhavi, where two police constables—Umesh and Ananth—were dealing in the alleged corruption. These officers have since been apprehended, with Lokayukta personnel conducting interrogations from Thursday evening until the early hours of the morning and confiscating crucial documents related to the case.

The extent of the corruption scandal, including Inspector Kumar's involvement and the actions taken by constables, is currently under investigation as the Lokayukta aims to address the rampant misconduct within law enforcement. This case underscores the ongoing challenges faced in combating corruption and maintaining integrity within the police force.