The investigation into the multi-thousand-crore GST scam has entered a crucial phase following the arrest of alleged mastermind Bhagwan Singh alias Bhura Pradhan. Digital devices recovered from the accused have yielded explosive evidence, triggering panic at departmental levels. Investigators are now tightening the net around officials and employees suspected of shielding the syndicate.
Multi-State Network from Mathura Hub
Preliminary findings indicate that the network was not confined to a single state but operated across multiple states in a well-coordinated manner. Several districts have been identified where the syndicate maintained active operations, allegedly with direct collusion from local officials. The accused, a native of Hathana (Kosi Kalan) in Mathura district, is believed to have run the entire operation from this hub, which functioned as the control center of the network.
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WhatsApp Chats Expose ₹250 Cr Bribes
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) has secured key digital evidence, including WhatsApp chats, Call Detail Records (CDR), and other electronic data. These are now being forensically examined to determine the involvement of suspected officials. According to sources, coded language was used extensively in chats to conceal bribery transactions and avoid direct references to illegal payments. The probe has also revealed that a fixed rate of ₹20,000 to ₹30,000 per truck was allegedly charged to facilitate clearance without inspection or enforcement action.
One of the most startling revelations is the alleged distribution of nearly ₹250 crore as “facilitation fees” among various officials and staff over a prolonged period. More than 20 senior GST officials’ contact numbers and communication records have been recovered from the accused’s mobile phone. These interactions are now under detailed scrutiny to establish accountability.
During searches, documents linked to 535 fake firms were seized. These entities reportedly showed a combined turnover exceeding ₹5,473 crore. Investigators have also uncovered evidence of approximately ₹989 crore in GST evasion and fraudulent claims of Input Tax Credit (ITC). The fake firms were allegedly used to manipulate the tax system on a large scale, causing significant losses to the exchequer.
London Virtual Numbers, Encrypted Comms
Sources further reveal that Bhura Pradhan relied heavily on advanced technological methods to evade law enforcement agencies. He reportedly used virtual numbers based in London, making it extremely difficult to trace his actual location. Additionally, encrypted WhatsApp communications enabled him to maintain contact with network members and allegedly linked officials, issuing instructions while staying off the radar.
Investigative agencies are now examining financial transactions and digital footprints spanning the past decade. A comprehensive list of individuals who may have benefited from the alleged scam is being prepared using digital evidence. This list is being cross-verified with banking data, call records, and other technical inputs to build a strong case.
Given the gravity of the case, large-scale departmental action is being planned. Officials whose names have surfaced during the investigation may face strict disciplinary proceedings, along with potential criminal charges.
The case has once again raised serious concerns over how systemic loopholes and internal collusion within the tax administration can be exploited to orchestrate large-scale financial frauds. With the SIT intensifying its probe, more significant revelations are expected in the coming days.
About the author – Rehan Khan is a law student and legal journalist with a keen interest in cybercrime, digital fraud, and emerging technology laws. He writes on the intersection of law, cybersecurity, and online safety, focusing on developments that impact individuals and institutions in India.
