Police Commissioner issued directive for closure of all nearby photocopy shops

The PSI scam had evolved into a significant controversy in the state

In 2021 written exam, over 50 candidates were discovered to have cheated

Prohibitory orders have been implemented within a 200-metre radius surrounding 117 examination centres for the re-examination of direct recruitment of police sub-inspectors (PSI) scheduled on January 23.

Bengaluru Police Commissioner B Dayananda has also issued a directive for the closure of all photocopy shops within this restricted area, starting from 7 am until the conclusion of the examination.

Some PSI aspirants filed police complaints against an intelligence wing officer, accusing him of reaching out to them on January 19, claiming possession of the question papers, and soliciting money.

Home Minister G Parameshwara confirmed that the accused, identified as Lingaiah, a constable with the State Intelligence, has been apprehended, and the Central Crime Branch (CCB) is conducting an investigation.

The PSI scam had evolved into a significant controversy in the state, implicating politicians and senior police officers. The examination, intending to recruit 545 PSIs, was last conducted in 2021 but was canceled by the State government due to widespread irregularities.

In the 2021 written exam, over 50 out of the 545 selected candidates were discovered to have cheated, involving leaked question papers, answers communicated through Bluetooth and other devices, and alleged kingpin RD Patil collecting substantial amounts from candidates.

The investigation had led to the arrest of the then Chief of the Police Recruitment Cell, Additional Director-General of Police Amrit Paul.