Srinagar, Sep 24 (Gulistan News): The Economic Offences Wing of Crime Branch Kashmir on Tuesday conducted coordinated raids in Bandipora and Budgam, unearthing a multi-crore land compensation scam linked to the 400 KV DC Samba-Amargrah Transmission Line project.
The case was registered following a complaint alleging fraudulent release of compensation for land in villages Watrad, Dalabal, and Kachwari, Tehsil Khansahib, Budgam. Investigation revealed that crores of rupees intended for genuine landowners were instead siphoned off in the names of non-existent persons. Fake bank accounts were reportedly used to withdraw the funds, facilitated by employees of M/s Unitac Power Transmission Limited in collusion with land brokers and certain bank officials.
The probe has identified key individuals allegedly involved in the scam, including Mushtaq Ahmad Lone of Watrad Dalabal, Bilal Ahmad Mir of Patushai Watpora, Bandipora, and Unitac employees Ranjit Singh and Samaliya Kumar, among others. The offences reportedly fall under Sections 409 (criminal breach of trust), 419 (cheating by impersonation), 420 (cheating), 467, 468, 471 (forgery), and 120-B RPC (criminal conspiracy).
Multiple locations across Budgam and Bandipora are currently under search as part of ongoing investigations. Officials said the raids aim to gather documentary and electronic evidence to identify the full extent of the fraudulent claims and hold the perpetrators accountable.
The Economic Offences Wing emphasized that the action is part of a larger effort to crack down on financial irregularities in infrastructure projects, ensuring that compensation reaches rightful beneficiaries and public funds are safeguarded. Local residents expressed hope that the investigation would lead to recovery of the misappropriated amounts and justice for the affected landowners.
Authorities have assured that the investigation is being expedited, with further updates expected in the coming days as more evidence emerges.
