Mohali: In a dramatic anti-corruption operation, the Central Bureau of Investigation carried out raids at the Punjab Vigilance Bureau headquarters in Mohali, detaining key suspects and probing what is suspected to be a major bribery racket involving officials and alleged middlemen.
The action began late Monday night when CBI teams entered the Vigilance office and reportedly detained the personal assistant, commonly referred to as the “Reader,” attached to a senior Vigilance official. The agency continued its operation on Tuesday morning, intensifying searches and questioning individuals linked to the case.
Simultaneously, raids were conducted at multiple locations, including the residences of two men identified as Raghav Goyal and Vikas Goyal in Malout’s Krishna Colony. Both were taken into custody as part of the ongoing investigation.
According to sources, the operation revolves around an alleged bribery transaction worth ₹20 lakh. Investigators reportedly intercepted negotiations taking place at a luxury hotel in Chandigarh, where the deal was allegedly being finalized.
It is learnt that the complainant had arrived at the hotel carrying ₹13 lakh instead of the full agreed amount. The cash was allegedly recovered during the CBI intervention at the site.
Officials familiar with the case said an FIR has been registered under the Prevention of Corruption Act against O.P. Rana, the detained Reader, along with Raghav Goyal. Investigators suspect the two were part of a larger network allegedly facilitating illegal settlements and influence-based negotiations.
Raghav Goyal, a resident of Muktsar district, is reportedly considered close to senior vigilance circles and had earlier been provided security cover by the Punjab government, raising further questions over his alleged role.
The development has sent shockwaves through the Vigilance Bureau, the state agency primarily responsible for tackling corruption. Sources indicate that the CBI is now widening its probe to identify whether more officials or private intermediaries were involved in the suspected racket.
Investigators are believed to be examining communication records, financial transactions and links between officials and external operatives to map the full extent of the alleged network.
The high-profile raid is being viewed as one of the most sensitive actions involving the Punjab Vigilance setup in recent years, with more disclosures expected as questioning of the detained suspects continues.
