UP cop suspended for demanding 5kg potatoes as bribe code

New Delhi: In a bizarre case of corruption, a sub-inspector in Kannauj, Uttar Pradesh, has been suspended after demanding a bribe using 'potatoes' as a code word. The sub-inspector, Ram Kripal Singh, faced suspension following an investigation that revealed his unusual method of soliciting bribes.

Bribe demand exposed 

The incident came to light when an audio clip of Singh demanding 'potatoes' in exchange for settling a case went viral on social media. In the recording, Singh is heard negotiating with a farmer, initially demanding 5 kg of 'potatoes.' The farmer, unable to meet the demand, offers 2 kg instead. However,  Singh insists on his original demand, eventually agreeing to settle for 3 kg.

UP Not for beginners
In Kannauj, a cop asked for ‘5 Kg Aloo’ as a bribe. The other person expressed inability to give & said he could afford only 2 Kgs. The Deal was settled at 3 Kgs. The Cop has been suspended, ACP Kannauj says that Aloo was being used as a Code word. pic.twitter.com/ZBkZFd40O9

— Tanishq Punjabi (@tanishqq9) August 10, 2024

Immediate action by authorities

Superintendent of Police Amit Kumar Anand ordered Singh’s suspension, stating that the officer was found guilty in the preliminary investigation. The suspension took effect immediately, and a departmental probe into the matter has been launched to further investigate Singh's conduct.

The Kannauj Police issued a statement on X (formerly Twitter) in Hindi, confirming the suspension of the officer. The statement noted that departmental proceedings have been initiated to ensure accountability.

Investigation underway

Kamlesh Kumar, the Circle Officer of the city, has been tasked with leading the investigation into the case. This incident has raised concerns about corruption within the police force and highlights the need for stringent measures to curb such practices.