Jaipur, January 1, 2026: A senior officer of the Rajasthan Police Service (RPS) was arrested in Jaipur on Tuesday in connection with alleged extortion and forgery cases involving demands totaling around ₹1 crore, police and official sources said.
The officer, identified as Ritesh Patel, was taken into custody following a joint investigation by the Jaipur Police Crime Branch and anti-corruption units. Patel, who was suspended earlier this month amid allegations of misconduct, faces accusations of extorting large sums of money from private individuals and businesspersons in exchange for favours and influence.
According to the FIR registered at the Jaipur Sadar police station, Patel allegedly used his official position to coerce victims into paying money with the promise of resolving legal and administrative matters in their favour. Investigators said he also engaged in forgery and manipulation of official documents as part of his activities to intimidate and cheat complainants.
Preliminary police sources indicate that Patel had levied extortion demands amounting to approximately ₹1 crore from multiple complainants over several months. Many of the alleged victims were reportedly forced to pay under duress, fearing adverse action or false cases being lodged against them.
The arrest follows a series of complaints that prompted senior police leadership to order a detailed inquiry into Patel’s conduct. During searches of his residence and office, authorities seized several questioned documents, mobile phones and digital evidence that are expected to form key parts of the prosecution’s case.
A senior official involved in the probe said, “Misuse of authority and criminal conduct by any police officer cannot be tolerated. Strict action will be taken based on the evidence to ensure accountability within the force.”
Patel, who had risen through the ranks of the Rajasthan Police Service, had previously served in various capacities across the state. His suspension was ordered as soon as allegations emerged, pending the outcome of ongoing investigations.
Legal proceedings are underway, and Patel is expected to be produced before a magistrate court in Jaipur for judicial custody hearings. Police have also indicated that more arrests of accomplices could follow as the case unfolds and additional evidence is examined.
The development has reignited discussions about internal accountability mechanisms within law enforcement agencies and the need for stronger oversight to prevent such incidents of corruption and abuse of power.