A massive alleged salary fund scam in Jharkhand has triggered shockwaves across the police and administrative machinery, after the CID Special Investigation Team (SIT) uncovered a money trail of nearly ₹10 crore. Continuous raids and arrests have exposed deep layers of financial irregularities within the system.
In the latest action, the SIT conducted a raid at the residence of ASI Ashok Bhardwaj in Bokaro, recovering several key documents related to investments and properties. According to investigators, records reveal ownership papers of a 4.08 decimal plot with a three-storey house in the Teelidih area of Bokaro, along with another 4.98 decimal land parcel. These properties are now under detailed scrutiny for verification of their funding sources.
CID officials stated that the investigation has revealed a well-structured network that siphoned off salary funds through illegal withdrawals, routing the money into multiple bank accounts. The diverted funds were later invested in real estate and other assets. So far, authorities have traced a money trail exceeding ₹10 crore, out of which ₹1.80 crore has been frozen, along with fixed deposits worth ₹18 lakh seized.
FCRF Academy Launches Premier Anti-Money Laundering Certification Program
Four key arrests in Bokaro treasury‑salary scam
The scam has already led to the arrest of four personnel, creating major unrest within the police department. The first arrest was made on April 7, when suspended accountant Kaushal Kumar Pandey from the SP office was taken into custody and identified as the alleged mastermind. This was followed by the arrest of Home Guard personnel Satish Kumar on April 27 and ASI Ashok Bhardwaj on April 29. On Thursday, constable Kajal Mandal was also detained in connection with the case.
Investigators believe that the network operated systematically for years, manipulating both manual and digital records to facilitate illegal salary withdrawals. Officials are now probing whether more individuals within the department were involved in the financial irregularities or assisted in concealing the transactions.
Gumla links: ₹28.39 lakh irregularity and show‑cause notice
Meanwhile, a separate but similar financial irregularity has surfaced in Gumla district, further intensifying concerns over systemic misuse of treasury funds. A suspected irregular withdrawal of ₹28.39 lakh from the Gumla treasury between 2017 and 2025 has been detected during a review of IFMS (Integrated Financial Management System) data by the Accountant General’s office.
Taking the matter seriously, the District Collector has sought an immediate investigation report. A departmental committee has been formed to probe the issue, led by the DRDA Director. However, the committee has alleged non-cooperation from the treasury officer, raising further suspicion of possible cover-ups.
In response, the Finance Department has issued a show-cause notice to the concerned treasury officer, directing a reply within 24 hours. Officials have warned that non-cooperation will be treated as an attempt to conceal financial misconduct, inviting strict disciplinary action.
Systemic alarm and widening probe across treasuries
Authorities stated that if the allegations are proven, it would indicate a larger pattern of financial manipulation within treasury operations. The ongoing investigations aim to determine whether the irregularities are isolated incidents or part of a wider organized system involving multiple departments.
These developments have raised serious concerns over financial governance and accountability within Jharkhand’s administrative framework. Investigation agencies are now intensifying scrutiny of money trails, property records, and banking transactions to uncover the full extent of the network and ensure strict action against all those involved.
About the author – Ayesha Aayat is a law student and contributor covering cybercrime, online frauds, and digital safety concerns. Her writing aims to raise awareness about evolving cyber threats and legal responses.
