CBI Arrests Two ED Officials in ₹5 Lakh Bribery Case
Lucknow, October 24, 2026: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested two officials posted at the Enforcement Directorate’s (ED) Lucknow Zonal Office in connection with an alleged ₹5 lakh bribery case. The arrests followed a complaint alleging that money was demanded in exchange for extending favourable treatment to a person involved in an ongoing ED investigation.
The accused have been identified as Deepak Kumar, an Enforcement Officer, and Manoj Dwivedi, a Head Constable deployed at the ED office. According to the CBI, Dwivedi was serving with the Enforcement Directorate on deputation from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).
The case was registered on October 23 following a complaint alleging that Dwivedi had demanded a bribe from the father of the complainant. The complainant’s father had reportedly received two summonses from the ED’s Lucknow Zone in August and September 2026 in connection with a case involving alleged bank fraud.
CBI Conducts Trap Operation
Following the complaint, the CBI registered a case and organised a trap operation to verify the allegations. During the operation on October 23, investigators allegedly caught Dwivedi red-handed while demanding and accepting ₹5 lakh on behalf of Enforcement Officer Deepak Kumar.
According to the agency, the money was allegedly sought in return for providing favourable treatment to the complainant’s father in the ED proceedings. The CBI subsequently apprehended both officials for further investigation.
The agency has registered the case against the accused and unidentified officials in connection with the alleged bribery arrangement. Both arrested officials face charges under the Prevention of Corruption Act, according to published reports.
Investigation Underway
The CBI is continuing its investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the alleged demand and acceptance of the money. Investigators are expected to examine the complaint, the circumstances of the trap operation and any evidence that may clarify the alleged roles of the two officials.
The investigation may also establish whether other individuals were involved in the alleged arrangement. However, no additional arrests or wider involvement should be assumed unless confirmed by the agency.
The case has drawn attention because it concerns officials associated with an agency responsible for investigating financial crimes, money laundering and other economic offences. The allegations raise questions about accountability and the importance of maintaining transparency in the functioning of law-enforcement institutions.
The CBI’s action forms part of its anti-corruption work, in which complaints against public servants are investigated and evidence is gathered through established legal procedures.
The allegations against the two officials remain subject to investigation and judicial proceedings. Their guilt has not been established by a court, and the legal process will determine the outcome of the case.
TAWI OBSERVER |
