Enforcement Directorate Targets Former Constable in Major Money Laundering Case
In a significant development, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has initiated an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) against Saurabh Sharma, a former constable from the Madhya Pradesh State Road Transportation Department, and his associate Chetan Singh Gaur. This action comes under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), following an FIR filed by the Bhopal unit of the Lokayukta’s Special Police Establishment (SPE).
Discovery of Disproportionate Assets
On December 19 and 20, extensive search operations conducted by the Lokayukta revealed assets worth crores at Sharma’s residence. The authorities uncovered vehicles, household goods, jewelry, and cash totaling approximately Rs. 3.86 crore. An additional investigation at the office shared with Gaur yielded assets, including silver and cash, valued at around Rs. 4.12 crore. In total, the assets discovered reached an astonishing Rs. 7.98 crore.
Income Tax Department’s Parallel Investigation
In a simultaneous operation, the Income Tax Department seized about 54 kg of gold biscuits and nearly Rs. 10 crore in cash from an abandoned vehicle allegedly linked to Gaur. The Lokayukta is currently evaluating whether to integrate these findings into their ongoing investigation, while the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has also launched a parallel inquiry into the origin of the gold biscuits.
Speculations and Property Investments
Speculation surrounds the motivations behind this crackdown, with allegations of an internal power struggle within the ruling party. Sharma, who took voluntary retirement last year after 12 years in service, has since ventured into real estate, reportedly investing even during his tenure in government. Currently residing in Dubai, he is anticipated to face detention by various agencies upon his return.
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As this case unfolds, further investigations into Sharma’s property holdings across multiple districts, including Bhopal, are expected. Links to a controversial hotel and school investment have also emerged, raising more questions about the extent of his financial dealings.
