Bengaluru: In a major crackdown, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) launched extensive search operations at properties linked to Karnataka’s Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Satish Jarkiholi and his daughter, Member of Parliament Priyanka Jarkiholi. The raids, conducted across multiple cities, are part of an ongoing money laundering probe connected to alleged massive irregularities in the state’s excise department.
According to official sources, a team of over 25 ED officials, escorted by Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel, arrived in a convoy of around 18 vehicles early in the morning to commence the searches. The coordinated raids spanned approximately 15 to 18 locations across Bengaluru, Belagavi, and Goa.
The premises searched include the minister’s residence in Belagavi, his government-allotted accommodation in Bengaluru, a private flat in the state capital, and properties associated with his daughter, Priyanka Jarkiholi. During the operation at his private flat in Bengaluru, where the minister scarcely resides, officials reportedly took the caretaker along for further questioning.
The core of the investigation revolves around a suspected Rs 178 crore excise scam involving Y. Manjunath, the Additional Excise Commissioner of the Belagavi zone. Manjunath is a senior official in the excise department and a close relative (brother-in-law) of Minister Satish Jarkiholi. The ED teams from the Bengaluru and Goa offices also raided properties belonging to Manjunath during this fresh wave of searches.
This is not the first time the central agency has zeroed in on the excise official. Previously, on June 24, the ED had raided Manjunath’s residence and locations of his close associates. During those earlier searches, investigators recovered a diary from Manjunath’s office, which reportedly contained crucial details and led to further revelations. Officials have stated that the ongoing probe is currently examining potential hawala transactions and suspected foreign financial links associated with the scam.
Manjunath had earlier approached the Karnataka High Court seeking a stay on the investigation, but the agency has intensified its scrutiny with these latest raids.
The political timing of the raids has also drawn attention, as the action unfolded while the state government was celebrating the completion of its 100 days in office. Search operations continued well into the day, and further official details from the Enforcement Directorate regarding subsequent seizures or detentions are awaited.