The probe into the money laundering case linked to former DIG Harcharan Singh Bhullar has intensified, with sources indicating that a top government functionary is now under the radar of both the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The individual is believed to have had close links with Bhullar, and agencies are examining possible connections as part of the ongoing investigation.
The development follows search operations conducted by the ED on Monday at 11 locations across Punjab, including Chandigarh (2), Ludhiana (5), Patiala (2), Nabha (1), and Jalandhar (1). The action was carried out under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002.
According to officials, the searches targeted premises linked to the accused, their associates, and suspected benamidars. The objective is to trace proceeds of crime, identify benami assets, and collect evidence related to alleged money laundering activities.
Officials stated that the ED action stems from predicate offences registered by the CBI, Chandigarh unit. The case pertains to allegations of demand for illegal gratification through a middleman in exchange for settling a criminal case.
Sources further indicate that at least six senior-level officials and a similar number of IPS officers are also under the scanner of the agencies, pointing to a wider network being examined.
Investigators have also flagged assets allegedly disproportionate to known sources of income, which forms a key part of the ongoing probe.
Search operations were underway at the time of reporting, with officials continuing to examine documents and financial records. No official statement has yet been issued regarding the involvement of the senior government figure, and further details are awaited as the investigation progresses.
