October 8, 2024: In a significant development, senior journalist Mahesh Langa was arrested by the Ahmedabad Crime Branch on Tuesday in connection with an alleged Goods and Services Tax (GST) fraud case. The arrest followed a series of raids conducted at 14 locations across Ahmedabad, Junagadh, Surat, Kheda, and Bhavnagar, leading to the seizure of Rs 20 lakh in cash, gold jewellery, and land documents from Langa's residence.

The operation was initiated after a complaint was lodged by the Central GST department, which uncovered a scheme involving over 200 purportedly fake companies. These entities are accused of fraudulently obtaining input tax credits through forged identities and documents, effectively evading substantial tax liabilities.

The Crime Branch's investigation revealed that forged documents linked to Langa's wife and father were utilized in suspicious transactions involving these fictitious firms. "Initial findings suggest a large-scale conspiracy aimed at defrauding the government of significant revenue, potentially amounting to crores of rupees, through fake billing, fraudulent documentation, and misrepresentation," a Crime Branch spokesperson stated.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime) Ajit Rajian confirmed that Langa, an employee of The Hindu newspaper, was apprehended following extensive questioning. An FIR has been filed against several individuals and entities, including Dhruvi Enterprise, Om Construction, Raj Infra, Haresh Construction Company, and DA Enterprise, as part of the ongoing investigation.