The Karnataka Lokayukta has conducted a series of raids at 15 locations linked to Srinivas T. M., the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of the Excise Department in Udupi district, over allegations of amassing disproportionate assets. During the operation, officials reportedly uncovered assets worth ₹8.69 crore that are suspected to be beyond his known sources of income.
The raids were carried out under the leadership of Dinesh Kumar from the Mangaluru division of the Lokayukta. According to officials, the searches were conducted simultaneously across 15 locations in different parts of Karnataka, including Udupi and Mangaluru, over a period of two days.
During the raids, investigators discovered substantial immovable properties worth ₹6,90,64,716. These include 11 residential plots, six well-furnished houses, and 31 acres of agricultural land.
In addition, officials also identified movable assets valued at ₹2,66,90,001. These assets include ₹3,95,941 in cash, gold jewellery worth ₹1.47 crore, cars valued at ₹17 lakh, cash deposits of ₹25.75 lakh, and household items worth ₹72.68 lakh.
Lokayukta authorities said the raids were conducted after receiving credible information suggesting that Srinivas T. M. possessed assets far exceeding his legitimate income sources. Based on the findings, the Lokayukta police have already registered a case against him for allegedly accumulating illegal wealth.
Officials confirmed that the investigation formally began on March 13, and further scrutiny of the documents related to the properties is currently underway. Investigators are examining records linked to the 31 acres of farmland, six houses, and 11 plots to determine how the assets were acquired and whether they were purchased in the names of the officer or his family members.
In cases where large amounts of disproportionate assets are uncovered during Lokayukta raids, it is common practice for the concerned department in this case, the Excise Department to suspend the officer based on the preliminary report submitted by the Lokayukta.
Sources indicate that the probe against Srinivas T. M. is currently in its initial stage. Depending on the preliminary findings submitted to the state government, a suspension order could be issued within the next couple of days.
Authorities have stated that further questioning of the officer will take place as part of the investigation, and he will be asked to provide explanations regarding the source of the assets found during the raids.
