Palanpur: In a significant crackdown, the Anti Corruption Bureau (ACB) Gujarat has apprehended Chandrikaben Thumbadiya, a Class-2 Agriculture Officer, alongside Rakesh Makwana and intermediary Hitendra Gami. The operation unfolded at the Krushi Seva Kendra in Amirgadh taluka, Banaskantha district.

The Bribery Scheme Unveiled

During a routine stock inspection, Thumbadiya and Makwana seized a POS machine and stock register from a local fertilizer shop. Allegedly, they demanded a bribe of Rs. 20,000 from the shop owner to return the confiscated items and avoid legal repercussions.

ACB Steps In

Upon refusal to comply with the illicit demand, the shop owner promptly reported the incident to the ACB. Subsequently, a meticulous trap was laid, resulting in the apprehension of the middleman, Hitendra Gami, who was caught accepting the bribe on behalf of the Agriculture Officers.

Legal Action and Detainment

ACB officials swiftly detained Thumbadiya, Makwana, and Gami following the successful operation. The trio now faces legal proceedings for their involvement in the corruption scandal, highlighting ACB Gujarat’s proactive stance against bribery and malpractice within the agricultural sector.