The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) late on Monday night apprehended a father and son duo acting as middlemen in connection with an alleged Rs 25 lakh bribery case involving the Punjab Vigilance Bureau. Both accused are expected to be produced before the special CBI court in Chandigarh on Tuesday for further police remand.
Details of the Arrest
According to sources, the CBI laid a trap at a five-star hotel in Chandigarh and caught alleged middleman Raghav Goel red-handed. His father was also taken into custody during the operation. Around Rs 13 lakh in cash, believed to be part of the bribe money, was recovered from their possession. It is alleged that the money was being exchanged to provide relief in a case and to use influence with the authorities.
Role of O P Rana
The name of O P Rana, reader to the Punjab Vigilance chief, has surfaced in the case. Inspector O P Rana allegedly managed to flee from the spot during the late-night operation. The CBI has registered a case against Rana and others under sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act.
Raids at Vigilance Bureau Headquarters
Following the arrests, CBI officials raided the Vigilance Bureau headquarters in Mohali and seized documents for examination. The agency conducted searches for several hours and examined the office of the official concerned. During the investigation, the CBI seized several important documents, digital records, and other materials. The agency also sealed the suspected official’s office. The late-night operation created chaos at the vigilance headquarters.
Investigation Underway
The CBI is now investigating on whose instructions the alleged bribery deal was being carried out and how many people were involved. After questioning the accused middlemen, the CBI team reached the Punjab Vigilance Bureau headquarters in Mohali late on Monday night. The agency is also examining the role of other officials who may have been complicit in the bribery scheme.
