Published Feb 08, 2026 | 2:12 PM ⚊ Updated Feb 08, 2026 | 2:38 PM
Representational image. Credit: iStock
Synopsis: VACB arrested Maradu municipality revenue inspector Saiju AG on 7 February for allegedly accepting a ₹3,000 bribe to issue ownership certificates. A trap was set following a complaint, and he will face the Vigilance Court.
The Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB) on Saturday, 7 February, nabbed a revenue inspector at Maradu municipality after he was caught accepting a bribe from a Champakkara resident.
Saiju AG was detained for allegedly taking ₹3,000 from the complainant in exchange for issuing ownership certificates for two houses purchased in the names of her daughter and son-in-law, both of whom live abroad.
According to VACB officials, Saiju had inspected the properties following an online application for ownership transfer filed on 3 January. He reportedly demanded ₹5,000 from the woman when she enquired about delays in processing the certificate, compelling her to hand over ₹2,000 immediately.
He then stated he could only issue a certificate for one property and instructed her to reapply online for the second.
On meeting him again on Friday, 6 February, after submitting another application, he allegedly asked her to return the next day with an additional ₹3,000.
The woman subsequently lodged a complaint with TM Varghese, DySp, VACB Ernakulam unit. A trap was laid, and the officer was arrested at his office around 12.50 p.m.
The VACB confirmed that the accused will be produced before the Vigilance Court in Muvattupuzha.
