The ongoing investigation into the Goa Samagra Shiksha financial fraud case has been officially transferred to the Crime Branch, authorities confirmed on Friday. The decision comes amid growing concerns over the misuse of public education funds meant for inclusive and quality schooling across the state.
So far, five individuals have been arrested in connection with the case, which involves the alleged siphoning of a significant amount of money from the Samagra Shiksha account. The fraudulent activity was flagged after irregular transactions were detected during a routine audit.
According to sources, the suspects colluded to divert funds by forging documents and manipulating bank accounts tied to the central education scheme. Officials are yet to disclose the exact sum embezzled, but preliminary estimates suggest the scam involves several lakhs, if not more.
The transfer of the case to the Crime Branch is seen as a step towards a more detailed and impartial investigation, given the sensitive nature of the scheme, which is aimed at improving school infrastructure, teacher training, and learning outcomes across Goa.
A senior officer said, “This is a serious breach of public trust. The Crime Branch will now explore all financial trails and investigate whether internal collusion played a role.”
Authorities have assured that swift action will be taken against all involved, including any government officials found complicit. More arrests are likely in the coming days as the probe expands.