Video of cops extorting auto driver emerges, probe on

Meerut: A video purportedly showing policemen allegedly extorting money from an autorickshaw driver in Gautam Buddh Nagar and circulating on social media has prompted an official inquiry.The footage captures a few policemen taking money from the driver during a roadside check. Allegations have surfaced that the personnel were from Meerut district and were engaged in illegal collections from vehicle drivers in Gautam Buddh Nagar area.Taking cognisance of the matter, Gautam Buddh Nagar police prepared a detailed report and sent it to Meerut SSP Avinash Pandey for necessary action. Officials said the authenticity of the video is being verified.Speaking to TOI, SSP Pandey said, “We have information about the incident and are coordinating with Noida police. The process for the suspension of the accused cops has begun. An investigation is on.”Sources said the incident occurred during the workers’ protest in mid-April, when police personnel from several districts across Uttar Pradesh were deployed to control violence in Gautam Buddh Nagar. The identities of the policemen seen in the video have not yet been disclosed.