Gangtok: The Sikkim Vigilance Department has made significant headway in a high-profile investigation into a conspiracy and fraud case involving officials from the State Bank of Sikkim and the Pension Office.
The case was initiated following a complaint by the Additional Director (Accounts) of the Pension, Finance Department, Gangtok. It is registered under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Prevention of Corruption Act.
The allegations involve a conspiracy to misappropriate government funds totaling Rs. 30 lakhs, which were fraudulently deposited into personal bank accounts by the accused officials.
In a major development, four arrests have been made, including three officials from the State Bank of Sikkim and one from the Pension Office.
Searches were conducted at seven locations, leading to the recovery of crucial documents and a portion of the misappropriated funds.
Through detailed analysis of the seized documents and sustained interrogation, the Vigilance Department has successfully recovered Rs. 22 lakhs of the stolen amount.
The investigation is still ongoing, and authorities are working diligently to uncover the full extent of the conspiracy and hold all involved parties accountable.
Further updates are expected as the case continues to unfold.
(Nitesh R Pradhan is a journalist based in Sikkim, India. He is currently correspondent of RT India and Editor of The Voice of Sikkim.)
Also read: Ex-Sikkim minister R C Poudyal vanishes, sparking search
