The Enforcement Directorate on Wednesday conducted simultaneous searches at several premises linked to senior Karnataka Excise Department official Y. Manjunath as part of an investigation into suspected foreign financial transactions and alleged benami assets. The searches were carried out across Belagavi, Bengaluru, Mysuru and Hassan district.
Searches Across Four Locations
According to sources, ED teams launched operations at locations associated with Manjunath, who serves as Additional Excise Commissioner, Enforcement and Crime Headquarters, Belagavi. He is also reported to be a relative of Karnataka minister Satish Jarkiholi.
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The searches covered multiple premises, including locations in Belagavi, Bengaluru, Mysuru and the Araikere area of Hassan district. Investigators examined documents, banking records, property papers and digital devices during the operation.
Sources said the agency also searched a residential apartment as part of the exercise. The ED has not yet issued a detailed official statement on the searches.
Foreign Transactions, Property Records Under Lens
The action was initiated following information related to suspected foreign transactions and alleged benami properties. Investigators are examining whether the assets and financial dealings under scrutiny match known and declared sources of income.
Officials familiar with the probe said documents and electronic records collected during the searches will be analysed to verify the source of funds, nature of investments and ownership structure of the assets under examination.
The inquiry may also include scrutiny of bank accounts, financial transactions and the possible role of associated individuals or entities. Manjunath is also the son of former Ballari Member of Parliament Y. Devendrappa.
Further Action to Depend on Findings
As of the filing of the report, the search operations were still underway. No official information had been released regarding any seizures or recoveries.
Sources said further action will depend on the findings from documents and evidence gathered during the raids. The ED is expected to examine financial records and other materials in detail before deciding the next steps.
The case remains under investigation, and more details are expected to emerge as the probe progresses.
