New Delhi, February 6: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has filed a First Information Report (FIR) against a retired superintendent and two inspectors in a serious bribery case. This action follows a complaint lodged on February 3 by the Additional Commissioner of CGST in Guwahati.
The allegations state that these officials misused their positions while stationed with the Customs Preventive Force (CPF) in Champhai, Mizoram. During the period of 2022-2023, they allegedly seized smuggled goods such as betel nuts and cigarettes without any documentation or legal procedures, demanding illegal bribes from the involved parties. After accepting bribes totaling over ₹3.5 million in various cases, they released the seized items.
Additionally, the investigation revealed that goods worth more than ₹14.2 million went missing from warehouses between December 23, 2022, and April 26, 2023. The accused reportedly accepted bribes in exchange for releasing smuggled items and were also involved in stealing goods from the warehouses.
The CBI has commenced searches at the residences of the accused officials. Raids are being conducted in Itanagar (Arunachal Pradesh), Guwahati (Assam), Sikar (Rajasthan), Patna (Bihar), and Churachandpur (Manipur). The investigative agency is thoroughly examining the case to uncover the entire bribery network and identify other individuals involved.
This case highlights the issues of smuggling and corruption within the customs department in border areas. It raises concerns that officials tasked with preventing smuggling in sensitive regions like Mizoram are themselves facing such serious allegations. The CBI has urged the public to report any information regarding corruption immediately. Further action will be taken upon completion of the investigation.