ED, Income Tax Conduct Joint Raids at Liquor Businessmen's Premises in Baloda Bazar
Digital Desk
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Income Tax (IT) Department have launched a joint search operation at the residences and business premises of liquor businessmen Raghavendra Saraf and Rupesh Saraf in Chhattisgarh's Baloda Bazar district, with officials scrutinising financial and property-related records.
According to sources, ED officials reached Baloda Bazar on the night of July 24 and kept the premises under surveillance before initiating searches the following morning. The operation has continued for the second consecutive day, with teams from both agencies examining documents and questioning individuals associated with the businesses.
Financial Records Under Scanner
Officials are conducting detailed searches across the premises, examining diaries, bank account records, property documents and other financial files. Family members and persons connected to the businesses are also being questioned as part of the ongoing investigation.
Authorities have not officially disclosed the exact nature of the probe or the allegations being investigated.
Prominent Business Family
The Saraf family is among the well-known business families in Baloda Bazar. The late Rajkumar Saraf had established multiple business ventures in the district. Following his death, his sons, Raghavendra Saraf and Rupesh Saraf, took over the family businesses, which reportedly include liquor trading, real estate operations and a brass manufacturing unit.
Sources indicated that investigators suspect possible financial irregularities, prompting the coordinated action by the ED and the Income Tax Department.
Search Continues for Second Day
Officials are reported to have seized several documents during the searches, which are being examined for further investigation. Based on material recovered during the ED operation, the Income Tax Department is also carrying out its own scrutiny as part of the joint exercise.
Police personnel have been deployed outside the premises to maintain security while the search operation continues.
No Official Statement Yet
Neither the Enforcement Directorate nor the Income Tax Department has issued an official statement explaining the reasons behind the searches or the scope of the investigation.
Authorities have also not confirmed whether any cash, valuables or incriminating evidence has been recovered during the operation. Further action is expected after investigators complete the examination of the seized documents and records.
