LUCKNOW, April 4 -- The station house officer (SHO) of Gautampalli and a staff member have been removed from active duty following allegations of extorting Rs.2.5 lakh from a man brought to the police station for questioning, officials said on Friday. SHO Ratnesh Kumar Singh has been attached to police lines, while the roles of other sub-inspectors and constables posted at the police station are under investigation. The action was taken after a probe ordered by the police commissioner reportedly confirmed the allegations. Inspector Vipin Singh has now been given charge of the Gautampalli police station. According to officials, the in-charge of the Bandariyabagh police outpost brought a man to the Gautampalli police station late at night two days ago. It was alleged that Rs.2.5 lakh was extorted from him during his time there. Following a complaint, the police commissioner initiated an inquiry into the matter. After preliminary findings corroborated the allegations, action was taken against the SHO and the staff member. Sources said the man's entry was recorded in the general diary of the police station and he was released after questioning in accordance with procedure. htc...