Chennai, 19 August (H.S.):The Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) carried out an extensive statewide operation on Wednesday, searching more than 40 locations as part of its investigation into alleged irregularities in the procurement of transformers in Tamil Nadu.

The early-morning searches covered houses, offices, commercial establishments and factories allegedly linked to the case. Officials said the operation was conducted simultaneously to prevent the possible removal or destruction of documents and other evidence.

Twenty-seven locations were searched in Chennai and neighbouring districts. These included four premises in Perungudi and three in Anna Nagar, besides properties in Tiruvallur and Chengalpattu districts. DVAC teams also inspected more than 10 factories across the state.

Investigators were examining procurement documents, financial records, contracts and digital evidence to establish the nature and extent of the alleged irregularities. Details about the individuals and companies under investigation, as well as the estimated loss to the state exchequer, were yet to be officially disclosed.

The DVAC action came a day after Income Tax officials conducted an unrelated search at five premises associated with a Chennai-based computer technology and communications company dealing in computer spare parts.

The searches were held at locations in Alwarpet, Ernavoor, Virugambakkam and Rajamangalam following allegations of tax evasion, suppression of income and unaccounted transactions involving foreign businesses and small Indian companies. Armed police personnel provided security to the Income Tax teams.

Officials inspected account books, computer records, transaction details and other financial documents. Investigators were verifying whether the company had concealed income or failed to properly record payments arising from its business dealings.

Authorities said details of any cash, documents or other materials seized would be released after the searches and preliminary scrutiny were completed. Officials clarified that there was no indication of any connection between the DVAC transformer procurement investigation and the separate Income Tax operation.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman