Tripura, 23 Jan 2026: Serious allegations of bribery and misconduct have surfaced against Sub-Inspector Pradeep Barman of Churaibari Police Station, following the detention of illegal areca nut consignments transported via rail.
According to local sources, the incident took place on Thursday afternoon when Churaibari Police intercepted a consignment of areca nuts being transported from Nilambazar to Teliamura on a DEMU train running from Karimganj to Agartala. The consignment reportedly had no valid documents.
It is alleged that SI Pradeep Barman seized only ten sacks of areca nuts from the train and initially attempted to release the consignment in exchange for ₹10,000. However, due to the presence of journalists at the spot, the alleged deal could not be finalised at that time. The seized areca nuts were later taken to the police station and formally shown as seized.
Speaking to the media, SI Barman claimed that two individuals were detained on suspicion and that the seized areca nuts, along with the detainees, would be produced before the court the following day. He further stated that the matter had been informed to the Sub-Divisional Police Officer and senior railway officials, and that legal procedures would be followed.
However, the two detained youths—Shahjahan Ahmed and Masum Ahmed—alleged that they were the actual owners of the areca nuts and were on their way to Teliamura. They claimed that despite being shown as “suspicious detainees” in official statements, they were released the same night after paying ₹20,000 as bribe. It is further alleged that they were assured the release of the seized areca nuts within a few days in exchange for a larger sum of money.
The incident has sparked widespread resentment in the area, with locals alleging that corruption and links to illegal trade have become rampant. It may be mentioned that earlier, SI Pradeep Barman was reportedly transferred following allegations related to cannabis smuggling from Tripura to other states by the then Superintendent of Police Avinash Rai, but he continues to remain posted at Churaibari.
Residents have demanded immediate administrative action, warning that failure to transfer or take disciplinary steps against the officer could lead to a rise in criminal activities and illegal trade in the region. Police authorities have not yet issued an official response to the latest allegations.
