'No Deals With Criminals': DK Shivakumar Issues Tough Warning to Karnataka Police

Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Saturday issued a stern warning to police personnel against engaging in any form of "deals" or criminal activities , saying the government would take strict action against any officer found compromising the integrity of the force.

Speaking after inaugurating 32 state-of-the-art mobile forensic vans and 75 Bolero vehicles for district police units at Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru, Shivakumar said police officers must remain impartial and honest. "Treat this as my request or an official directive," he said, stressing that public trust in the police depends on ethical conduct.

The term "deals" , as used by Shivakumar, refers to illegal arrangements, corruption, bribery, collusion with criminals, or unofficial settlements that allow offenders to escape legal action or receive undue favours. His remarks come amid growing concerns over corruption allegations in law enforcement and the government's broader push to strengthen transparency and accountability within the police force.

Highlighting the state's anti-drug campaign, Shivakumar said Karnataka Police had seized narcotics worth Rs 375 crore and arrested 1,500 drug peddlers over the past year. He announced a Rs 10 lakh cash reward for the team that dismantled a major drug network, calling it a significant achievement.

The Chief Minister also referred to his recent meeting with Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala on tackling cross-border drug trafficking , assuring that Karnataka would take all necessary measures to prevent narcotics from entering or passing through the state.

Emphasising crime prevention, Shivakumar said dedicated teams would be formed in every police station to curb rowdyism and that AI-based technologies would be increasingly used in investigations.

He also announced that the handling of donations in temples managed by the Karnataka Muzrai Department would be video recorded from collection to bank deposit to ensure transparency. Additionally, he directed that police recruitment be conducted strictly on merit , warning against bribery or influence in government appointments.