Pilibhit Traffic Police Under Investigation Over Viral Extortion Claims
A viral video of a Pilibhit traffic constable has sparked allegations of extortion and bribery, prompting an official police inquiry.
The traffic police unit in Barkheda, Pilibhit, has been thrust into the spotlight following serious allegations of bribery and extortion. The controversy erupted after a video surfaced on social media, appearing to show a constable engaged in a suspicious exchange during a vehicle inspection.
The Viral Video and Allegations
The incident gained momentum late in the evening when a video began circulating widely across social media platforms. The footage captures a traffic constable in a conversation with an individual near the Nawabganj intersection. While the clip has ignited public outrage, the content itself presents a complex picture for investigators.
According to reports, the video primarily captures verbal discussions regarding money rather than a clear, physical hand-off of cash. Despite this lack of direct visual evidence of a transaction, the video has fueled intense accusations against the local traffic department. Witnesses and local reports suggest a pattern of misconduct, alleging that traffic personnel have been:
- Stopping two-wheelers and private commercial vehicles.
- Targeting overloaded trucks.
- Using the threat of heavy fines to solicit illegal payments from drivers.
Official Inquiry Launched
As the controversy reached senior police officials, a formal investigation was immediately initiated. The probe focused on verifying the authenticity of the claims and identifying the person behind the camera.
Investigators have since identified the individual who filmed the footage as a commercial vehicle operator. However, the findings of the initial inquiry have added a layer of complexity to the case. Traffic CO Akriti Patel stated that the current investigation suggests the video may have been recorded and released with the specific intention of exerting pressure on the traffic police force.
Ongoing Investigation
While the police department is treating the matter with gravity, they are working to determine whether the recorded conversation constitutes actual extortion or if the footage was part of a targeted attempt to intimidate law enforcement. Authorities have confirmed that a thorough and ongoing investigation is being conducted to uncover the full truth behind the Barkheda traffic police controversy.