In a significant development in the ongoing investigation into a major financial scandal, officials from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) carried out coordinated raids in Ballari on Wednesday. The searches targeted the residences of two close associates of former minister B Nagendra, intensifying the probe into the multi-crore Valmiki Development Corporation scam.
Properties Searched, Documents Examined
A team comprising four CBI officers conducted simultaneous operations at two locations. One raid took place at the Bengaluru Road home of Vishwanath, while the other was executed at the Hussein Nagar residence of Maruthi. The officials meticulously examined a wide array of documents and other crucial information related to financial dealings during the searches, which lasted for several hours.
Sources familiar with the investigation revealed that both Vishwanath and Maruthi are implicated in the case. Vishwanath is reported to have managed the financial affairs of the former minister, B Nagendra. In contrast, Maruthi was responsible for handling household matters and daily arrangements. The raids are a direct offshoot of the scandal engulfing the Valmiki Development Corporation, which involves alleged misappropriation of funds amounting to crores of rupees.
Brother Questioned as Key Aide Absent
During the operation at Vishwanath's house, the primary target was not present. Consequently, the CBI team took his brother, Mahesh, to the Bruce Pet police station to assist with inquiries and help gather necessary information. The officials are expected to have confiscated several documents from both properties as part of their evidence collection process.
Official Statement Awaited
While police sources have confirmed the raids and their connection to the scam, an official statement from the investigating agency is anticipated shortly. This development marks a crucial step in unraveling the layers of the alleged financial irregularities within the Valmiki Development Corporation, bringing the probe closer to the inner circle of the former minister.
The CBI's action underscores the seriousness of the allegations and the agency's commitment to following the money trail in this high-profile case that has captured public attention in Karnataka.
