Sleuths of the Vigilance and Anti Corruption Bureau (VACB) swooped on inter-State check-posts in surprise raids held simultaneously across the State to expose large-scale irregularities on Sunday.
Operation Treasure Hunt, operationalised to tackle malpractices and lax vigilance at check-posts during the Onam season, witnessed inspections conducted as early as 5.30 a.m. at 39 check posts under the Excise department, 19 under the Motor Vehicles Department, and 12 under the Animal Husbandry department.
The crackdown was organised on the basis of tip-offs that indicated the possibility of officials permitting goods vehicles into the State without proper scrutiny after collecting bribes. There has been a considerable increase in the movement of heavy vehicles transporting various commodities from across the border in the run-up to the Onam festivities in Kerala.
