The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday carried out searches at multiple locations in Karnataka linked to a senior excise officer, who is said to be the brother-in-law of Minister Satish Jarkiholi. The searches were conducted as part of an investigation into suspected foreign transactions and accumulation of benami properties, according to sources.
Searches Across Multiple Locations
The ED teams fanned out to several premises in the state, including the officer's residence and offices, to gather evidence. The operation began early in the morning and continued through the day. Sources said the raids were based on intelligence inputs indicating that the officer had indulged in illicit financial dealings and acquired assets in the names of others.
Allegations of Benami Properties
The investigation focuses on allegations that the excise officer amassed properties disproportionate to his known sources of income, using benami entities. The ED is also probing foreign transactions that may have been used to launder money. The officer has not been formally charged, and the searches are part of a preliminary inquiry.
Minister Satish Jarkiholi, who holds the excise portfolio, has not commented on the developments. The officer is reportedly his wife's brother. The ED action comes amid a broader crackdown on corruption in the state's excise department.
Previous ED Actions in Karnataka
The ED has been active in Karnataka in recent months, probing cases related to illegal mining, sand mining, and other financial crimes. In April, the agency conducted searches in connection with a money laundering case involving a former minister. The current raids are seen as part of the agency's ongoing efforts to trace illicit wealth.
Further details are awaited as the investigation progresses.
