NewsFlash Daily™
08 April 
In a dramatic anti-corruption crackdown, Karnataka Lokayukta officials seize gold, land, cash, and secret documents linked to Fisheries Deputy Director Shivanna.
Ballari: The Karnataka Lokayukta conducted a massive raid on the residence and office of Fisheries Department Deputy Director Shivanna in Ballari, uncovering assets worth crores allegedly disproportionate to his known sources of income. The early morning operation on April 7 has sent shockwaves across Karnataka’s administrative circles.
The Lokayukta team carried out simultaneous searches at Shivanna’s residence on Hospet Road, his office, and even inspected the official Bolero vehicle used by him. The extensive operation lasted nearly 12 hours, during which officials reportedly stumbled upon shocking evidence of illegal wealth accumulation, leaving even seasoned investigators stunned.
Decade-Long Posting Raises Suspicion
Sources revealed that Shivanna had been working in the same position for nearly 10 years, during which multiple complaints over ten had been filed against him with the Lokayukta. These complaints triggered the detailed investigation that ultimately led to the raid and exposure of the alleged corruption network.
Details of Seized Illegal Assets
The scale of assets recovered during the raid is staggering and points to a well-established network of undisclosed wealth:
- Land Holdings: A total of 44 acres of agricultural land across multiple locations
- Sites: 14 residential plots within Ballari city
- Houses: 3 well-furnished houses in Ballari
- Cash: ₹8.5 lakh recovered from the residence and ₹20 lakh found in bank accounts
- Gold: Approximately 600 grams of gold ornaments
- Vehicles: Three two-wheelers
In addition to these, officials also discovered documents hinting at several benami properties, suggesting that the actual extent of illegal wealth could be significantly higher.
Secret Documents Found in Official Vehicle
In a surprising twist, crucial documents were reportedly recovered from the government-issued Bolero vehicle, raising further suspicion about attempts to conceal evidence. These documents are now under scrutiny as part of the ongoing investigation.
Investigation Intensifies
Officials confirmed that the probe is far from over, and further inquiries are underway to trace hidden assets and financial transactions linked to Shivanna. Legal action is expected as the Lokayukta builds its case based on the evidence collected.
“The volume and nature of assets found indicate a clear disproportion to known income sources. Investigation is ongoing,” a Lokayukta official stated.
