CBIC Suspends Bengaluru CGST Officials Over Extortion Allegations

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) suspended several Central GST officials in Bengaluru following their arrest over extortion charges. The arrests were made by Bengaluru's City Crime Branch. An investigation is ongoing, and the CBIC insists on a zero-tolerance policy for misconduct.

On Friday, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) announced the suspension of several Central GST officials in Bengaluru who were allegedly involved in extortion.

Last Monday, Bengaluru's City Crime Branch arrested four officials based on a businessman's complaint of kidnapping and extortion. The accused include senior officers like a superintendent, inspector, and senior intelligence officer.

The CBIC confirmed in a post on X that these officials have violated laws and have been immediately suspended. The CBIC is currently cooperating with police authorities for further investigation, maintaining a zero-tolerance policy for misconduct. The Enforcement Directorate has also initiated a money-laundering case against the accused.

(With inputs from agencies.)