The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted searches at 13 locations across Tripura, West Bengal and Maharashtra on November 5 as part of an investigation into an alleged fake government tender racket. The case involves a suspended IAS officer of the Tripura cadre and several alleged associates. According to the agency, a Nagpur-based company deposited approximately ₹14.55 crore as earnest money against government tenders that investigators say were never issued.
The alleged fraud involved tenders linked to the mid-day meal and power sectors. During the searches, ED officials seized documents, digital devices and records related to suspected hawala transactions and high-value properties. The agency also alleged that the accused collectively cheated multiple victims of more than ₹44 crore.
Read More: Tripura BSF Attack: 18 of 19 Accused Arrested
Key Facts About the ED Investigation
- Agency: Enforcement Directorate (ED)
- Search date: November 5, 2026
- Total search locations: 13
- States covered: Tripura, West Bengal and Maharashtra
- Main accused: A suspended IAS officer of the Tripura cadre and alleged associates
- Complainant: M/s SK Sales Corporation, Nagpur
- Alleged initial loss: Approximately ₹14.55 crore
- Total alleged fraud: More than ₹44 crore
- Items seized: Documents, digital devices and financial records
- Investigation: Ongoing
ED Raids 13 Locations in Three States
Officials from the ED’s Agartala Sub-Zonal Office carried out the searches on Wednesday, November 4. The agency announced the operation on November 5.
Investigators focused on several locations in Tripura, including the residence of the suspended IAS officer. They also searched the premises of alleged hawala operators in Dharmanagar subdivision of North Tripura.
According to the ED, these operators allegedly presented themselves as officials responsible for processing payments linked to the fake government tenders. Additionally, the agency searched offices of companies and other entities suspected of involvement in the financial transactions.
Nagpur Company Allegedly Cheated of ₹14.55 Crore
The investigation stems from an FIR registered at Capital Complex Police Station in West Tripura district. M/s SK Sales Corporation, a Nagpur-based company, filed the complaint against the suspended IAS officer and his alleged associates.
The complainant alleged that the accused persuaded the company to deposit around ₹14.55 crore as earnest money deposits (EMDs). The payments reportedly took place between September 2024 and February 2025.
The company allegedly made these deposits against government tenders related to the mid-day meal and power sectors. However, the ED claims that the purported tenders never actually existed.
Consequently, investigators are examining how the accused allegedly used fake tender documents and payment arrangements to collect money from victims.
ED Seizes Documents, Digital Devices and Property Records
During the searches, ED officials recovered a substantial volume of documents linked to suspected hawala transactions. They also seized records containing details of high-value properties and information about the alleged control of corporate entities.
Furthermore, officials collected digital devices and electronic records belonging to several accused persons. Investigators will examine these materials to trace the movement of funds and identify other individuals or companies connected to the alleged racket.
The agency also claimed that the accused had collectively cheated multiple victims of more than ₹44 crore. However, the investigation remains underway, and authorities are still examining the full extent of the alleged financial fraud.
Why the ED Investigation Matters for Tripura
The case has drawn attention to alleged financial irregularities involving a suspended IAS officer of the Tripura cadre. Moreover, the searches across three states indicate that investigators are examining a wider network of financial transactions and suspected intermediaries.
Tripura’s administrative and financial institutions play an important role in delivering public services across Northeast India. Therefore, allegations involving fake government tenders raise concerns about transparency in public procurement and the protection of businesses from financial fraud.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many locations did the ED search?
The ED searched 13 locations across Tripura, West Bengal and Maharashtra.
2. How much money did the Nagpur company allegedly lose?
M/s SK Sales Corporation alleged that it deposited approximately ₹14.55 crore against purported government tenders.
3. Who is linked to the alleged tender racket?
The investigation involves a suspended IAS officer of the Tripura cadre and several alleged associates.
4. How much money did the accused allegedly collect from multiple victims?
The ED claims that the alleged fraud involving multiple victims exceeds ₹44 crore.
5. What did the ED seize during the searches?
Officials seized documents, digital devices, suspected hawala transaction records and details of high-value properties.
Also Read: Namsai Dacoity: Five Arrested in Arunachal Pradesh