Why is the CBI Investigating the Former DGM of Nagpur Ordnance Factory?
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Synopsis
The CBI's recent crackdown on corruption at the Ordnance Factory Ambajhari in Nagpur reveals a web of deceit involving a former Deputy General Manager and his associates. This story uncovers how manipulation of tenders led to substantial financial losses for the government, highlighting the ongoing battle against corruption in public procurement.
Key Takeaways
- Former DGM implicated in tender manipulation.
- Allegations of fraudulent financial transactions.
- CBI launched a comprehensive investigation.
- Significant losses to government finances.
- Separate case of gold export fraud also under scrutiny.
New Delhi, Sep 2 (NationPress) The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has charged a former Deputy General Manager of the Ordnance Factory Ambajhari in Nagpur along with an official from a private supplier firm for allegations of corruption and conspiracy, resulting in losses amounting to lakhs of rupees to the government's exchequer.
Deepak Lamba, who served as the DGM of OFAJ, Nagpur, and Mohit Tholia, the owner of Automation Engineering and Industrial Services, were named in an FIR filed on August 25, according to the CBI.
The agency executed searches at four different locations, including both residential and office spaces of the accused, leading to the seizure of incriminating documents and digital evidence.
This action was triggered by a complaint against the Nagpur-based private company and its proprietor, alongside other unidentified public servants and private individuals.
The complaint asserted that while holding the position of DGM, Lamba established a proprietary firm and manipulated tender conditions to ensure that contracts were awarded to his own company.
Furthermore, it was alleged that these tenders were granted based on fraudulent experience certificates submitted by the firm.
The complaint also claimed that Lamba engaged in several financial transactions with the private firm through his personal bank account and those of family members.
In a separate investigation concerning government employees, the CBI has also registered an FIR related to a gold export scam at Chennai Airport Cargo. This case involves a network of Customs officials and jewelry traders accused of defrauding the Union government of over Rs 1,000 crore annually between 2020 and 2022.
The FIR includes 13 accused individuals, comprising five Customs officials, a jewelry assessor, a customs agent, and four gold jewelry manufacturers.
Among those named are Customs Superintendents J. Sureshkumar, Alok Shukla, and P. Tulasiram, along with jewelry assessor N. Samuel, customs agent Mariyappan, and manufacturers Deepak Siroya, Santosh Kothari, Sunil Parmar, and Sunil Sharma.
Investigators allege that the accused imported 24-carat gold bars under the Duty-Free Import Authorisation (DFIA) scheme, which required these bars to be converted into 22-carat ornaments for re-export.
Instead, the accused allegedly exported gold-plated brass and copper ornaments or substandard jewelry, pocketing the profits and leading to significant losses for the exchequer.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize that corruption undermines the very foundations of governance. The CBI's actions reflect a commitment to accountability, and this case serves as a reminder of the constant vigilance needed in the public sector. We must support efforts to root out corruption and restore trust among citizens.
NationPress
02/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the CBI investigation?
The investigation was prompted by a complaint alleging manipulation of tender processes by the former DGM of the Ordnance Factory to favor his own firm, resulting in financial losses.
What are the charges against the accused?
The accused face charges of corruption and conspiracy, as well as allegations of conducting fraudulent financial transactions.
How much money was allegedly defrauded?
The alleged fraud has resulted in losses amounting to lakhs of rupees to the government exchequer.
Are there other related cases under investigation?
Yes, the CBI is also investigating a separate gold export fraud case involving Customs officials and jewelry traders, allegedly defrauding the government of over Rs 1,000 crore.
What actions has the CBI taken so far?
The CBI has conducted searches at multiple locations associated with the accused and recovered incriminating documents and digital evidence.
