Sameer Wankhede Claims Patriotism As CBI Raids Unfold: “I Am Being Punished”
Mumbai, 14th May 2023: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) conducted raids at 29 locations linked to former Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) Zonal Director Sameer Wankhede on Friday (May 12). In response to the CBI action, Wankhede stated that he is being punished for his patriotism.
Wankhede has been in the news since 2021 when he led the raid on a cruise ship in Mumbai. During this operation, several individuals, including Aryan Khan, son of Bollywood actor Shahrukh Khan, were arrested. Aryan Khan’s arrest sparked a political uproar in the country.
The CBI has filed a case against Sameer Wankhede, accusing him of demanding a bribe of Rs 25 crore for the release of Aryan Khan. As part of their investigation, the CBI carried out raids at approximately 29 locations associated with Wankhede.
Speaking to India Today, Sameer Wankhede said, “The CBI raided my residence and conducted a search for over 12 hours. They found Rs 18,000 in cash and four property documents at my house. These properties were purchased by me before I joined the service. I am being punished for being a patriot.”
Wankhede mentioned that a team of six CBI officers searched his father’s house in Andheri but found nothing incriminating. Another team of seven officers raided the house of his in-laws. Wankhede expressed concern about the well-being of his elderly mother-in-law and father-in-law.
The case revolves around Wankhede’s raid on a rave party held on the Cordelia Cruise in Mumbai on October 2, 2021, which resulted in the arrest of Aryan Khan. Allegations have been made that Wankhede demanded a bribe of Rs 25 lakhs to secure Aryan Khan’s release. The CBI has registered a case against Wankhede under various sections related to corruption. Aryan Khan was subsequently granted bail, as no evidence was found against him in the case.
