Has the ED filed a prosecution complaint against former forest service officer?
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Synopsis
The Enforcement Directorate has taken significant action by filing a prosecution complaint against former forest service officer Akula Kishan under the PMLA. This case unveils serious allegations of financial misconduct and fraud, raising questions about accountability in public service.
Key Takeaways
- ED actions reflect commitment to accountability.
- Significant financial misconduct alleged.
- Focus on transparency in public service.
- PMLA enforcement is vital for curbing financial crime.
- Implications for governance and public trust.
Hyderabad, Aug 14 (NationPress) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has submitted a prosecution complaint to the special PMLA Court in this city against former Indian Forest Service (IFoS) officer Akula Kishan and others, under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002.
The ED's Hyderabad Zonal Office announced on Thursday that the court has acknowledged the Prosecution Complaint (PC).
The investigation initiated by the ED under the PMLA was triggered by an FIR filed by the CID Police Station in Hyderabad. The underlying case involves alleged misconduct where Kishan, in his official capacity, conspired with other individuals and private entities to siphon off funds from the Andhra Pradesh Women’s Co-operative Finance Corporation (APWCFC), according to a statement from the ED.
Between April 2005 and 2008, the fraudulent activities included irregular hiring, unauthorized land dealings, and procedural breaches to facilitate improper purchases. He also misappropriated APWCFC assets by leasing parts of its buildings, fraudulently withdrawing substantial sums, and inflicting considerable financial damage on both the corporation and the government, as per the agency's findings.
The ED's investigation disclosed that while working at the APWCFC, Kishan made unlawful appointments and promotions without necessary approvals to maintain the allegiance of certain individuals. He subsequently used these individuals to disburse Rs 15.39 crore in loans to ineligible and affiliated persons and benamis without appropriate guarantees or documentation, often based on handwritten notes under the Indiramma Mahila Upadi Pathakam (IMUP) loan scheme.
In conjunction with CEO V. Santosh Kumar, Kishan established secret bank accounts, executed fraudulent agreements, raised Rs 7.5 crore in the name of the APWCFC, and rerouted funds to personal accounts and associates. He also procured computers, laptops, software, mobile phones, printing machines, and vehicles without the proper tendering process, at inflated prices, resulting in personal financial gain. Consequently, Kishan allegedly defrauded the APWCFC and others, causing wrongful losses amounting to Rs. 23.46 crore and utilizing the proceeds of crime for his own benefit, the agency reported.
Previously, the ED has attached immovable properties belonging to Kishan and others valued at Rs 1.26 crore under the PMLA.
Point of View
It's imperative to acknowledge the seriousness of the allegations against Akula Kishan. The Enforcement Directorate's actions reflect a broader commitment to uphold integrity within public service. This case serves as a reminder of the need for transparency and accountability in government operations.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Prevention of Money Laundering Act?
The Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) is a law in India that aims to prevent money laundering and to provide for confiscation of property derived from money laundering.
What were the allegations against Akula Kishan?
Akula Kishan is accused of colluding with others to misappropriate funds from the Andhra Pradesh Women’s Co-operative Finance Corporation, resulting in significant financial losses.
What actions has the ED taken against Kishan?
The Enforcement Directorate has filed a prosecution complaint and previously attached properties worth Rs 1.26 crore belonging to Kishan under the provisions of the PMLA.
