ACB raids GVMC zone commissioner’s residence

The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) conducted simultaneous raids on the residence and office of Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) zone-2 (Madhuravada) commissioner P Simhachalam, following allegations of possessing illegal assets disproportionate to his known sources of income.

The raids began in the early hours of Tuesday at Simhachalam’s residence in Mithilapuri Colony, Madhuravada. Simultaneous searches were also carried out at the Zone-2 office in Visakhapatnam and at properties belonging to his relatives in Hyderabad and Srikakulam.

ACB officials reportedly seized crucial documents and evidence during the raids. Sources revealed that complaints were lodged against Simhachalam, alleging he had amassed wealth through illegal means. The operation was led by ACB joint director M Rajini, under the directive of ACB director general Atul Singh, with ASP N Vishnu and DSPs Nageswara Rao and Ramya also participating in the investigation.

The raids are said to be ongoing, and officials hinted at the possibility of producing Commissioner Simhachalam before the ACB court upon their conclusion. Visakhapatnam, as Andhra Pradesh's commercial hub, is witnessing rapid urbanization and construction activities. With permissions required for these developments, allegations of corruption among GVMC officials have surfaced.

Complaints suggest officials were demanding bribes to expedite clearances for construction projects. This investigation is reportedly part of a broader effort by ACB to scrutinize corruption within GVMC Zone-2. Officials hinted at expanding their probe into other cases involving municipal corporation staff.