Bengaluru, 6 Dec

In response to a surge in cases involving police personnel in robbery, theft and fraud, Karnataka Director General MA Saleem has directed all police units to conduct regular background checks, integrity assessments and counselling to prevent misconduct in the force.

He warned that any police officer or staff member found engaging in criminal acts will face the "most severe" disciplinary action.

In a circular dated 5 December, issued to all SPs, zonal heads, commissioners, the state DG, and IGP stated that such involvement of police personnel in criminal or illegal activities is completely unacceptable.

He cited recent incidents, including the Davangere case, where two police sub-inspectors were arrested for allegedly robbing a gold merchant after posing as IG Squad officers, and the Bengaluru case in which a Govindpura police constable was held for his role in a meticulously planned, high-value cash robbery in collusion with a former cash management firm employee.

"These incidents bring shame to the force, damage public confidence, and cast doubt on the integrity of the entire law enforcement machinery," he said.

According to the circular, DG&IGP Saleem has directed the unit officers to conduct regular background checks and integrity assessments of all subordinate officers and staff without fail.

He has instructed the department to organise awareness sessions and training programmes on ethical conduct, legal responsibilities, and the consequences of corruption and misconduct.

"Immediately report to Police Headquarters any information regarding illegal activities or criminal behaviour by any police officer or employee," it stated.

The unit officers have been instructed to provide guidance and counselling programmes to address issues related to low morale, work-related stress, and other factors that may contribute to ethical lapses.

The police chief has asked the unit officers to strictly enforce the existing Code of Conduct and ensure that no deviations are tolerated under any circumstances.

"Failure of Unit Officers to proactively and fully implement these measures will be treated as gross negligence and will attract departmental disciplinary action. Any compromise with the dignity, honour, or integrity of the police department is unacceptable," the circular stated.