Vehicle with Rs 20 cr being transported to bank raises suspicions

Suspecting illegal transportation of money amounting to Rs 20 crore by the State Bank of India, Malavalli branch, former MLA K Annadani and his supporters waylaid the vehicle and alerted Election Officers here on Thursday night.

The MLA and his supporters suspected that money was being transported to the bank in a canter vehicle bearing a local number around 11 pm. They immediately informed the poll authorities that money is being transported to the bank after office hours.

When the police arrived on the spot, the people alleged negligence by the police and wanted to know why it was not checked at check-posts. A heated exchange of words ensued between the police and the party workers.

Nodal inspector R Srikanth, sector officer Mallikarjunaswamy, election officer Shylaja and assistant election officer Chandramouli visited the spot.

The bank officials counted the money in the presence of K Annadani and the process was videographed till 3.30 am on Friday.

Speaking to reporters, Annadani demanded suitable probe as there were no relevant documents supporting the transportation of money.

However, election officer Shylaja said, “As claimed by the bank officials, Rs 20 crore was found in the vehicle. The authorities have been asked to provide clarification for transporting money during the night. The bank authorities have been told not to use the money for circulation.”