Srinagar, August 20 (KNZ/TMJ): The Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Thursday trapped and arrested Gazala Akhter, Junior Building Inspector, SMC Ward No. 28, Srinagar, while allegedly demanding and accepting a bribe of ₹10,000 from a complainant.

According to the ACB, a written complaint was received alleging that the accused official had demanded illegal gratification in connection with the construction of two structures, despite the complainant having already obtained the requisite building permission from the competent authority.

The complainant further alleged that the official was deliberately delaying and obstructing the construction work, allegedly causing harassment and putting pressure on him to pay the demanded amount.

Following the complaint, the ACB conducted a discreet verification, which prima facie substantiated the allegations. Subsequently, FIR No. 11/2026 under Section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, was registered at Police Station ACB Srinagar and investigation was taken up.

During the investigation, an ACB trap team was constituted. The team laid a successful trap and apprehended Gazala Akhter red-handed while allegedly demanding and accepting ₹10,000 from the complainant.

The bribe amount was recovered from her possession in the presence of independent witnesses, following which she was taken into custody.

Further investigation into the case is underway.KNZ/TMJ