In a major development concerning the ongoing disproportionate assets (DA) investigation against Karnataka Housing and Waqf Minister B.Z. Zameer Ahmed Khan, the Lokayukta police on Wednesday conducted simultaneous raids at 10 locations across the state. The searches targeted properties belonging to the Minister’s close aide and Private Secretary, Sarfaraz Khan.
Simultaneous Raids Across Bengaluru and Kodagu
The operation, which began in the early hours of Wednesday, was led by Lokayukta SP Shivaprakash Devaraju. Over 10 teams of officials descended upon various residential and commercial properties to verify documents and check for undisclosed assets.
Key Locations Targeted:
- Bengaluru: Five properties in the city, including Sarfaraz Khan’s residence in Halasuru (Ulsoor) and his office premises.
- Kodagu: Raids were also carried out on a luxury resort and farmhouse in the Kodagu district, which the authorities believe are linked to the aide.
- H.D. Kote: Investigations also extended to properties near the Taraka Dam, following previous allegations of illegal constructions in eco-sensitive zones.
Connection to the Minister’s DA Case
The raids are part of a broader probe into the wealth amassed by Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan.
- The investigation stems from an Enforcement Directorate (ED) report which alleged that the Minister possessed assets valued at 2,031% more than his known sources of income.
- The Role of the Aide: Officials are investigating whether Sarfaraz Khan acted as a conduit for the Minister’s investments. Recent reports suggest that several high-value properties, including resorts in Kodagu and farmhouses, are registered in the names of family members or close associates like Sarfaraz.
Focus of the Investigation
Lokayukta officials are currently scrutinizing several bank lockers, property sale deeds, and financial transaction records found during the searches.
