CBI arrests DGCA official, aviation firm director in bribery case

The CBI's anti-corruption division apprehended the DGCA official and aviation firm director on charges of accepting and offering bribes, respectively, according to agency sources. The investigation revealed that the aviation firm director allegedly paid Rs 2.5 lakh to the DGCA official in exchange for regulatory favors and clearances.

The arrest comes as part of the CBI's ongoing crackdown on corruption within India's civil aviation sector. Preliminary investigations suggest that the illicit payment was made to expedite approval processes or obtain preferential treatment in regulatory matters handled by the DGCA official.

Searches conducted at the residences and offices of both accused persons yielded incriminating documents and financial records that corroborate the bribery allegations. The CBI has registered a formal case under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code dealing with criminal intimidation, extortion, and provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act.

Both individuals are currently in CBI custody for further interrogation and to uncover the extent of the alleged corrupt practices. The investigation is ongoing to determine whether other officials or aviation industry stakeholders were involved in similar misconduct.