Archive · 3 Jun 2025
VACB Probes ED Officer in Alleged ₹2 Crore Bribe Case
The VACB is looking into an ED officer, Shekhar Kumar, who allegedly asked for a ₹2 crore bribe from a businessman.
The businessman's firm was being investigated by the ED for possible money laundering.
The VACB has arrested three individuals.
The VACB suspects shell companies in Thane, Maharashtra, were involved in diverting the bribe money.
The businessman reported the bribe demand.
The VACB set a trap and arrested Wilson Varghese while collecting ₹2 lakh.
Wilson implicated others, including a chartered accountant and a businessman.
The Kerala High Court ordered the VACB not to arrest the ED officer until June 11.
VACB is investigating an ED officer in a corruption case involving a bribe demand.
An alleged shell company in Thane, Maharashtra, is under investigation.
Three individuals have been arrested in connection with the case.
The businessman's firm was under ED investigation for potential money laundering.
Kerala High Court has ordered the VACB not to arrest the ED officer until June 11.
- Who
- VACB, ED officer Shekhar Kumar, businessman, Wilson Varghese, Mukesh Kumar, Ranjith Warrier.
- What
- VACB investigation into an alleged bribe demand from an ED officer.
- When
- 2024 (businessman summoned by ED); May 15, 2025 (bribe demand); May 16, 2025 (arrest).
- Where
- Kochi, Kerala; Thane, Maharashtra
- Why
- To investigate allegations of corruption related to a businessman's ED investigation.
VACB's Position
ED Officer's (Implied) Position
Evidence against the Officer
VACB's Position
VACB has arrested three individuals and is investigating shell company involvement.
ED Officer's (Implied) Position
Not available in this article.
- Agency Investigating
- VACB
- ED Officer Accused
- Shekhar Kumar, Assistant Director
- Accusation
- Demanding ₹2 crore bribe
- Alleged Shell Company
- Located in Thane, Maharashtra
- Businessman's Firm
- Cashew export-import firm