Gujarat : ACB Trap Sparks Panic as CGST Officer, Consultant Held in Rs.20 Lakh Bribe Case

Rajkot | Gujarat — In a major anti-corruption crackdown that has sent shockwaves across government departments and business circles, the Anti-Corruption Bureau in Rajkot caught a CGST superintendent and a tax consultant red-handed while allegedly accepting a ₹20 lakh bribe to settle a GST evasion matter.

The arrested accused have been identified as CGST Superintendent Mukesh Kumar and tax consultant Akash Kaloliya. Officials said the duo had demanded money to avoid registering a major case related to GST evasion, fake billing and tax irregularities.

From ₹25 Lakh Demand to ₹20 Lakh Deal

According to investigators, the accused initially demanded ₹25 lakh from the complainant to “settle” the case. After negotiations, the amount was allegedly finalised at ₹20 lakh. The complainant approached the Anti-Corruption Bureau Gujarat, triggering a carefully planned sting operation.

“After receiving the complaint, our team verified the demand and laid a trap,” an ACB official said. “The accused were caught red-handed while accepting the bribe.”

Trap Laid at Creative Complex

The ACB team set up the operation at Creative Complex located behind the ST Bus Station in Rajkot. As soon as the accused accepted the bribe amount, officers moved in and arrested both individuals on the spot.

Officials confirmed that further investigation is underway to determine whether more people were involved in the alleged corruption network.

Strong Message Against Corruption

The high-profile arrest has created a stir among government officials and intermediaries, sending a strong warning against corruption in tax enforcement.

An ACB officer stated, “We are committed to taking strict action against anyone involved in corruption. No official or middleman will be spared.”

Authorities are now examining financial records and communication trails as part of the ongoing probe.