Bengaluru Traffic Officers Suspended Following Viral Bribery Videos
Two traffic police personnel in Bengaluru face disciplinary action after civilian footage captured them accepting illegal payments. The incidents highlight a recurring failure to utilize mandatory body-worn cameras during enforcement.
Head Constable Suspended Over Five-Thousand Rupee Extortion
Deputy Commissioner of Police for Bengaluru East, Sahil Bagla, issued a formal suspension order for Head Constable Somashekhar following a documented bribery incident. Somashekhar, stationed at the Pulakeshinagar Traffic Police Station, allegedly intercepted a truck transporting iron and demanded a payment of ₹5,000 from the driver, Syed Afroz.
The officer reportedly utilized intimidation tactics, warning the driver that a formal case would result in mandatory court appearances and significant fines. Seeking to document the encounter, Afroz filmed the transaction on his mobile device and later presented the evidence to senior leadership. An initial inquiry into these charges of misconduct and illegal gratification led to Somashekhar’s immediate removal from active duty.
Public Footage Exposes Peenya Police Misconduct
A second incident occurred at the 8th Mile junction, involving an Assistant Sub-Inspector from the Peenya Traffic Police Station. Local residents filmed the officer as he allegedly accepted a ₹200 payment from a motorist during a routine vehicle inspection. The widely circulated video features the rider confirming the transaction, stating he was allowed to proceed only after paying the bribe.
Systemic Failures in Oversight
These cases have drawn sharp public criticism regarding the effectiveness of police oversight in the city. Despite departmental regulations requiring the use of body-worn cameras during all traffic stops, the following lapses occurred:
- Both accused officers failed to activate or wear their department-issued recording devices.
- The evidence relied entirely on civilian-recorded mobile phone footage.
- The incidents occurred during daylight hours while officers were actively conducting vehicle checks.
The July 26 reports serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggle to enforce transparency within the traffic division, despite the technological tools currently at the disposal of the force.
Source: The Hindu — News
