CBI arrests West Central Railway: official for ₹1 lakh bribe demand

New Delhi: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) registered a case on June 4, 2026, against a Deputy Chief Engineer-II (Construction) of West Central Railway following allegations of corruption linked to a railway construction contract.

According to the agency, the complaint stated that the officer demanded an illegal gratification of ₹1 lakh from a contractor. The demand was allegedly made in connection with the release of a security deposit, pending bill payments, and price variation (PVC) dues totaling around ₹1 crore.

Alleged Bribe Demand for Contract Clearance

Investigators said the accused was handling matters related to contract execution and payments. It was alleged that he sought undue advantage to process financial dues pending against the complainant’s work order.

The allegations prompted the CBI to initiate a verification process, which was followed by a planned trap operation to confirm the demand and acceptance of bribe.

Trap Operation in Sagar

On June 4, 2026, the CBI laid a trap in Sagar, Madhya Pradesh. The accused Deputy Chief Engineer was allegedly caught red-handed while demanding and accepting ₹1 lakh from the complainant.

Officials confirmed that the arrest was made on the spot after the transaction was completed under surveillance.

Search Operations and Recovery

Following the arrest, CBI teams conducted searches at the accused officer’s premises, including a guest house room. During the search, ₹62,000 in unaccounted cash was recovered.

Investigators also seized documents suspected to be linked to real estate investments from his residence. These materials are being examined as part of the ongoing probe.

Arrest and Further Proceedings

The accused has been taken into custody and is scheduled to be produced before the competent court in Jabalpur on June 5, 2026.

Investigation Continues

The CBI has stated that the investigation is still underway to trace the full extent of the alleged corruption and examine whether additional individuals or transactions are involved in the case.