WhatsApp chats recovered from accused reveal link between former SP Srinath Joshi and ₹4.15 crore extortion racket run by dismissed constable Ningappa Savant
In a significant development in Karnataka’s ongoing Lokayukta extortion scandal, investigators have uncovered digital evidence allegedly linking IPS officer Srinath Joshi—former Superintendent of Police (SP) with the Karnataka Lokayukta—to dismissed constable Ningappa Savant, who is accused of running a multi-crore extortion racket targeting government officials.
Joshi held the post of SP in the Lokayukta office until just last week.
WhatsApp Chats Reveal Alleged Financial Updates to IPS Officer
The connection between Joshi and Savant came to light after the latter’s arrest on June 2, when forensic analysis of Savant’s mobile phone revealed WhatsApp messages and call records. These communications reportedly show Savant regularly updating Joshi about extortion collections, including a specific instance where he allegedly reported receiving ₹56 lakh from excise officials.
High Court Intervenes Amidst Legal Irregularities
On Thursday, the case took a legal twist as the Karnataka High Court granted interim bail to Ningappa Savant, citing violations of arrest procedure. His wife, G. K. Chandrakala, argued that Lokayukta officers had not adhered to Supreme Court guidelines while arresting her husband.
Justice S. R. Krishna Kumar, while granting relief, observed that the grounds of arrest had not been properly communicated to Savant or his family, which justified interim bail. Savant has now been released on four weeks’ interim bail.
Earlier, on June 17, the High Court had also stayed the FIR filed by the Lokayukta police against Savant. A day later, it put a hold on the summons issued to SP Srinath Joshi for questioning in connection with the case.
Fake Raid Call Sparks Investigation
The scandal began to unravel after a complaint was lodged on May 23 by a Regional Transport Officer (RTO) in Tumakuru. The officer reported receiving a threatening call from an individual pretending to be SP Vamsi Krishna from the Bengaluru City Lokayukta. The caller demanded a bribe in exchange for avoiding a raid.
Subsequent investigation traced the call to Ningappa Savant, who was swiftly arrested. His phone was handed over to the State CID for forensic analysis, leading to the discovery of damaging digital evidence. This included WhatsApp conversations with SP Srinath Joshi and records suggesting financial transactions potentially tied to the extortion scheme.
Next Steps in the Investigation
As the probe deepens, investigators are expected to examine the extent of SP Joshi’s involvement and pursue other possible links in the extortion network. While no formal charges have been filed against the IPS officer yet, the digital evidence has added significant weight to the ongoing inquiry.
The case continues to draw attention amid growing concerns over corruption within anti-corruption institutions themselves.
