In a rapidly unfolding investigation into a multi-crore GST scam, 35 individuals have been named as accused, including Siddharth Barad, nephew of BJP MLA Bhaga Barad. The Ahmedabad Crime Branch, with the assistance of local police, is actively pursuing the suspects, many of whom remain on the run.
The scam has thrown a spotlight on over 30 chartered accountants across Gujarat, including cities like Ahmedabad, Nadiad, Bhavnagar, and Junagadh. These accountants, responsible for auditing around 200 companies, are suspected of facilitating tax fraud by authenticating fake bills for shell companies in exchange for illicit payments. Authorities believe the number of suspects will likely increase as the investigation continues.
Earlier raids conducted by the Ahmedabad Crime Branch at 14 locations across Gujarat uncovered crucial documents, exposing a network of over 200 shell companies engaged in large-scale tax evasion. The raids have led to the arrest of several individuals, including a journalist, and the detention of 33 operators involved in the creation of 12 shell firms.
This massive tax fraud has rattled financial and auditing circles, with authorities ramping up efforts to bring those involved to justice.
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