In a development that has raised serious questions over police functioning in Uttar Pradesh, five policemen, including the in-charge of the surveillance cell, have been suspended over allegations of illegal extortion in Moradabad district. The action follows a complaint accusing the team of conducting an unauthorized raid at a medical store and allegedly collecting ₹40,000 in exchange for releasing the owner.
Senior Superintendent of Police Satpal Antil confirmed the action, stating that a complaint had been received against the surveillance team. “Preliminary inquiry found the allegations to be prima facie true. The accused personnel have been suspended with immediate effect, and a detailed departmental investigation is underway,” he said.
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Complaint Triggered Probe
The matter came to light after advocate Mohammad Jamshed Qureshi, a resident of Mohalla Feelkhana, Reti Street, submitted a written complaint to the SSP. He alleged that on the night of January 8, a group of policemen arrived at his brother Uvaid Qureshi’s medical store.
According to the complaint, the team introduced themselves as members of a “flying squad of the drug department” and began checking the premises. It was further alleged that they damaged CCTV cameras installed at the shop and forcibly took the store owner away in their vehicle. The complainant claimed that the owner was later released after ₹40,000 was paid to the policemen.
Following the incident, the family approached senior officials seeking justice.
CCTV Footage Proves Crucial
On the SSP’s directions, a probe was conducted at the circle officer level. During the investigation, a CCTV clip surfaced showing members of the surveillance cell escorting the medical store operator away. The footage, along with other material evidence, corroborated the complaint.
Based on the findings, the SSP ordered the suspension of Surveillance Cell In-Charge Sub-Inspector Veer Bose, Head Constable Manoj Yadav, and constables Shivam Chikara, Vipin Sharma and Yash Dahiya. Departmental disciplinary proceedings have been initiated against all five.
Pattern of Allegations
The episode has once again put the spotlight on alleged misconduct within the police department. Notably, in neighbouring Sambhal district, an SOG team had recently faced action over similar allegations of extortion. Repeated instances of such complaints have drawn criticism and concern from both citizens and trade bodies.
Local trader associations have expressed unease, stating that arbitrary actions without proper authorization create an atmosphere of fear among business owners. They have demanded strict oversight mechanisms to prevent misuse of power.
Strong Message from Department
The SSP asserted that any act of illegal recovery or abuse of authority would not be tolerated under any circumstances. He emphasized that personnel found guilty after due process could face stringent penalties, including dismissal from service.
He further assured that the ongoing investigation would be conducted in a transparent manner and that anyone else found involved would also face action.
The suspended policemen have been attached to the police lines pending completion of the inquiry. Further legal steps will be decided after the departmental probe concludes. The incident has once again underscored the need for stronger accountability and internal monitoring within law enforcement agencies to maintain public trust.
About the author – Ayesha Aayat is a law student and contributor covering cybercrime, online frauds, and digital safety concerns. Her writing aims to raise awareness about evolving cyber threats and legal responses.
