Rayagada, Nov 6: The Crime Branch conducted a raid at the residence of former MP N. Bhaskar Rao in Raniguda, Rayagada town, in connection with an alleged embezzlement of ₹80 crore belonging to the Truck Owners’ Association.

A 21-member Crime Branch team carried out the search operation under the leadership of an Additional Superintendent of Police. The team included five Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs) and five Inspectors.

An Economic Offences Wing (EOW) team had arrived in Rayagada on Wednesday to investigate allegations of financial irregularities. After conducting preliminary inquiries over the past two days, the team proceeded with the raid on Thursday.

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The case pertains to an alleged misappropriation of ₹80 crore, an allegation reportedly raised by the late Y. Venkateswara Rao, former president of the Truck Owners’ Association. He had lodged a complaint with Rayagada Police against former MP Bhaskar Rao and others, accusing them of misappropriating the association’s funds.

Following the complaint, Rayagada Police transferred the case to the Crime Branch for further investigation. Subsequently, a 21-member team arrived in the district to probe the alleged financial irregularities.

Sources said that Bhaskar Rao is currently not in Rayagada. The investigating team is staying at his residence and questioning some of his associates as part of the probe.

However, officials have declined to share further details about the ongoing investigation.