Srinagar, June 13 (IANS) The Crime Branch officials on Saturday conducted searches at multiple locations in Shopian and Pulwama districts of Jammu and Kashmir as part of an ongoing investigation into the alleged manipulation of date-of-birth entries in government service records.

According to an official statement, the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of the Kashmir Crime Branch carried out searches at the office and residence of a senior Health Department official in connection with the case. The raids were conducted at the office of the Deputy Chief Medical Officer (DCMO), Shopian, and at his residence in the Thamuna area of Pulwama district.

The case has been registered under relevant legal provisions and relates to allegations that official service records were fraudulently altered to change date-of-birth entries and secure undue benefits in government service.

Officials said teams from the EOW searched the premises in both districts and examined documents and other materials believed to be relevant to the investigation. The operation was conducted in accordance with legal procedures and in the presence of independent witnesses.

While the Crime Branch did not disclose details of any documents or materials seized during the searches, sources indicated that investigators are examining whether service records were tampered with in violation of government regulations.

The EOW officials said the probe is continuing and further action will be taken based on evidence collected during the investigation.

The agency also appealed to the public to report instances of economic fraud, corruption and financial misconduct to the appropriate authorities.

The Crime Branch of the Jammu and Kashmir Police is a specialised investigative agency that handles complex and sensitive cases, particularly economic offences and crimes requiring technical expertise. It comprises dedicated teams trained to investigate cases involving fraud, financial irregularities and document-related offences.

Such cases are often transferred to the Crime Branch as regular police units are primarily engaged in law-and-order duties. The specialised wing is tasked with conducting detailed, time-bound and technically supported investigations to ensure a thorough examination of evidence and accountability in cases involving public institutions and government departments.

–IANS

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