CBIC Suspends Bengaluru CGST Officials Arrested for Extortion Charges

By: Admin
September 13, 2024
Categories: CGST News | 4 Min Read

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) announced the suspension of several Bengaluru-based Central GST (CGST) officials who were arrested by the city police on charges of extortion. The Bengaluru City Crime Branch arrested four CGST officers, including a superintendent, inspector, and senior intelligence officer, following a complaint by a businessman at Byappanahalli police station on September 11.

The businessman accused the officials of kidnapping and extortion, prompting immediate action. In a post on X, CBIC stated that these officers were suspended for violating the laws of the land. The CBIC confirmed they are coordinating with the police, who have obtained the remand of the accused.

CBIC emphasized its zero-tolerance policy toward official misconduct and reiterated its commitment to a transparent and trade-friendly tax administration. Further action will be taken based on the investigation’s outcome.

Additionally, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has registered a money laundering case against the arrested officials. The ED alleges that the officials extorted Rs 1.5 crore from the businessman by impersonating Enforcement Directorate officers. The agency will investigate their assets and seek custody for questioning under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

CGSTOfficers #ExtortionCharges #BengaluruPolice #CBICSuspension #GSTFraud #MoneyLaundering #PMLA #BusinessNews #EDInvestigation