CBI Nabs PESO Official for Alleged Bribery

CBI has arrested Rajendra Rawat, the joint chief controller of PESO in Navi Mumbai, for allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs 9 lakh. Around Rs 26 lakh in cash was recovered during searches, and the involvement of other officials is under investigation. The operation followed a tip-off.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested Rajendra Rawat, the joint chief controller of PESO in Navi Mumbai, on charges of accepting a bribe of Rs 9 lakh, as revealed on Saturday.

Officials conducted searches and recovered approximately Rs 26 lakh in cash, with the involvement of additional officers currently under scrutiny. PESO operates as a governmental department in India focused on hazardous material safety.

Allegations point to Rawat's engagement in corrupt practices alongside private consultants. An operation initiated from a tip-off intercepted a private individual after delivering a package to Rawat's home, confirming delivery of the bribe to his wife. Further investigations revealed more unaccounted cash within Rawat's and his associates' premises.

(With inputs from agencies.)