Agartala: Tripura CM Manik Saha has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the state police over their failure to apprehend suspended IFS officer Gaurav Rabindra Wagh (2020 batch), who is accused of involvement in a high-profile corruption and money laundering case.
The Chief Minister criticised Director General of Police Anurag, directing him to reassess the investigation process amid serious allegations of procedural lapses and possible collusion within the crime branch.
Allegations of Discrepancies and Possible Collusion
The controversy intensified after discrepancies surfaced in the seizure of cash linked to the case. A relative of the accused officer, Rajendra Chintaman Kankachila, was apprehended at Agartala Railway Station on April 23 with reportedly over ₹1 crore in cash.
However, the official seizure report recorded only ₹60 lakh, raising serious concerns.
Sources indicate that procedural lapses by a team led by DIG Crime Branch Sanjoy Roy during the arrest may have been deliberate, fuelling allegations that the discrepancies could have facilitated Wagh’s escape from the state.
CM Orders Detailed Review of Investigation
Taking a stern view, Manik Saha instructed the police leadership to conduct a comprehensive review of the investigation.
He also expressed concern over the inability of the police to prevent the accused officer’s escape despite ongoing surveillance, calling for accountability within the force.
Directive for Immediate Arrest and Inter-State Coordination
The Chief Minister has tasked the DGP with ensuring the immediate arrest of Gaurav Rabindra Wagh and directed that all necessary steps be taken to trace him.
Given that Wagh hails from Maharashtra, the state police have been advised to coordinate with authorities there, including the Maharashtra Police, to expedite the search operation.
Case Raises Questions on Police Functioning
The developments have triggered broader concerns about internal accountability and integrity within the investigation process, particularly in sensitive corruption cases involving senior officials.
The alleged discrepancies in cash seizure and the accused officer’s escape have put the spotlight on the functioning of the crime branch and the need for stricter oversight.
Ongoing Developments
Authorities are expected to intensify efforts to track down the accused officer, while the review ordered by the Chief Minister may lead to further action if lapses or misconduct are established.
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