DVAC registers FIR against ex-AC of Teynampet

The officer, who is now serving as the Assistant Commandant of Tamil Nadu Special Police (TSP), Avadi battalion, reportedly received nearly Rs 3.5 lakh from the accused. The DVAC in its FIR has said that he received the money between the last week of February 2018 and first week of May 2018.

The DVAC has registered a case under sections of Prevention of Corruption Act (PCA) after receiving a nod from the State Home Secretary. The investigators decided to register the case based on the audio of phone conversation between the officer Muthalagu and a suspect identified as Prakash.

Prakash and his brother Sundar were wanted in connection with the abduction of Karthik Sethupathi, said to be a legal heir of Ramanad Samasthanam (Estate). Initially, Prakash was arrested along with another gangster named Rocket Raja while Sundar remained absconding. After Prakash came out on bail, Muthalagu allegedly contacted him and demanded Rs 20 lakh for not taking action against him and his brother.

While Prakash told the officer he can arrange only Rs 5 lakh, Muthalagu had replied that the money would not even cover his tea expenses. As the officer demanded bribe by threatening through WhatsApp call and in-person, Prakash recorded the WhatsApp call. Sundar was later arrested in May, 2018. The conversation was later leaked to newspapers and television channels. The audio also went viral on social media after which the state police head-quarters decided to order a detailed probe into the matter.

During the further inquiry, the DVAC came to know that officer Muthalagu has already received up to Rs 3.5 lakh from Sundar through an advocate, when the latter was absconding in connection with the case.