Published Sep 01, 2026 | 4:55 PM ⚊ Updated Sep 01, 2026 | 4:55 PM
Image used for representational purpose. (AI generated)
Three sub-inspectors in Karnataka’s Uttara Kannada district have been suspended after a conversation about money allegedly paid to secure a posting at the Haliyal police station surfaced on social media.
The suspended sub-inspectors were identified as Kiran Patil, Krishna Arageri and Vinod Reddy.
According to reports, the three officers are friends and were discussing the Haliyal posting and other related matters during the two-minute conversation.
In the audio, the officers are reportedly heard discussing how money was paid to secure the posting and suggesting that they should serve in the same taluk and “earn” together.
The conversation also reportedly touched upon transfer-related dealings and monthly collections allegedly meant to be passed on to senior officers.
Following the circulation of the audio, Uttara Kannada SP MN Deepan ordered Additional SP Krishnamurthy to conduct a preliminary inquiry. The inquiry reportedly found prima facie misconduct and dereliction of duty, leading to their suspension on 31 August.
The controversy assumes added significance because Vinod Reddy, one of the suspended sub-inspectors, had been serving with the Belthangady SIT for nearly a year in connection with the ‘Burude case’ that rocked Dharmasthala.
Reddy had earlier served as a Sub-Inspector at Haliyal and was later transferred to Mundgod. He continued with the Belthangady SIT after the state government constituted the special team, according to reports.
Kiran Patil was serving as the Law and Order Sub-Inspector at Haliyal, while Krishna Arageri was attached to its crime wing. Reddy was posted at Mundgod while continuing his assignment with the SIT.
The JD(S) social media cell also circulated the audio and accused the Congress government of corruption in police postings.
Further investigation is ongoing.
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(With inputs from N Keerthivas.)
