ACB raids RTA check-posts across Telangana, recovers Rs 4 lakh of unaccounted cash

Hyderabad: The Telangana Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) conducted surprise raids on multiple Road Transport Authority (RTA) check-posts across Telangana and seized over Rs 4 lakh of unaccounted cash.

The operation was launched on the intervening night of October 18 and 19 after receiving credible information that RTA officials were systematically collecting illegal gratification from lorry drivers and transporters through private agents.

Cash seized, report to be submitted

During the raids, ACB teams recovered unaccounted cash amounting to Rs 4,18,880. The bureau stated that a detailed report will be submitted to the government recommending disciplinary and legal action against the officials involved in the malpractice.

12 check posts under scanner

The ACB teams carried out simultaneous searches at 12 check-posts spread across the state.

The locations include:

1) Vishunupuram (Wadapalli) RTA Check Post, Nalgonda District.

2) Kodad RTA Check Post, Suryapet District.

3) Krishna RTA Check Post, Narayanpet District.

4) Bhoraj RTA Check Post, Adilabad District.

5) Bhainsa RTA Check Post, Nirmal District.

6) Wankhidi RTA Check Post, Komram Bheem-Asifabad

7) Salabatpoor-Maddunur RTA Check Post, Kamareddy District

8) Pendurthy RTA Check Post, Kamareddy District

9) Zaheerabad RTA Check Post, Sangareddy District

10) Palvoncha RTA Check Post, Bhadradri-Kothagudem

11) Aswaraopet RTA Chekpost, Bhadradri-Kothagudem

12) Muthugudem (Penuballi) RTA Check Post, Khammam District.

Organised bribe collection network

According to the ACB, the raids revealed that private individuals were deployed by RTA officials at the check-posts to collect money from truck drivers and cleaners. The agents were reportedly taking payments to allow vehicles to pass without inspection, while officials turned a blind eye to the activity.

ACB officials observed that several lorry drivers were offering cash payments routinely, indicating a well-established and organised system of corruption at the check-posts.

ACB appeals to citizens

The ACB urged the public to report any instance of bribery demands by government officials. Citizens can contact the bureau through the Toll-Free Number 1064 or via WhatsApp at 9440446106.