ACB unearths Rs.3.06 cr assets from mines official

Metro India News | Warangal

The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), Warangal Range, has registered a disproportionate assets case against Bejja Jaya Raju, Assistant Director, Mines & Geology department, Jayashankar Bhupalpally district, who is presently holding Full Additional Charge (FAC) of Deputy Director, Mines & Geology department, Warangal.

The officer is alleged to have amassed assets disproportionate to his known sources of income through corrupt practices and dubious means during his service. Following registration of the case under Section 13(1)(b) read with Section 13(2) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, as amended in 2018, the ACB officials conducted searches at eight locations linked to the officer, his relatives and associates on August 27.

During the searches, investigators identified assets which included a Q+2 building at Boduppal, Hyderabad, a flat at KPHB Colony, five plots in different locations, 3.21 acres of agricultural land, vehicles, gold ornaments weighing 629 grams, cash, insurance and post office savings, household articles and bank deposits.

The total value of assets identified so far has been estimated at approximately Rs.3.06 crore. ACB officials said the market value of the immovable properties is likely to be considerably higher than their official or documented value.

Investigators also examined the information found on the mobile phone of Sattunuri Yadaiah, the accused officer's driver, and transaction records. Prima facie, about Rs.24.80 lakh was allegedly transferred through multiple transactions from the driver's bank account to the bank account of the officer's daughter.

During preliminary enquiry, the driver reportedly stated that the money had allegedly been collected from persons involved in sand transportation and related activities and subsequently transferred to the officer's daughter's account. The ACB is verifying the source, nature and purpose of these transactions and the alleged illegal gratification. Further verification is underway to identify any additional assets. The investigation is continuing. Citizens can lodge complaints on ACB's toll free helpline - 1064.