Patna: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Thane Police has arrested two more accused in connection with the Maharashtra Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) paper leak case, taking the total number of arrests to 12.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Pawan Kumar, a resident of Delhi, and Hariom Panu, a resident of Haryana. Investigators believe both played significant roles in the alleged examination fraud network, which is now being traced across multiple states.
Mastermind Allegedly Sought Buyers in Mumbai
According to the investigation, the alleged mastermind, Bijendra Gupta, travelled to Mumbai to establish contact with prospective buyers before the examination.
Officials said he was searching for secure locations where candidates could be accommodated before the test. The alleged plan involved providing question papers and answer keys to candidates shortly before the examination.
The SIT said it has gathered several crucial leads during the investigation and has expanded the scope of the probe to identify other individuals linked to the conspiracy.
Flight Booking and Financial Trail Under Investigation
Investigators have found that Hariom allegedly booked the flight ticket for Bijendra Gupta’s journey to Mumbai.
The SIT has also identified indications of suspicious financial transactions involving Pawan Kumar. Officials are examining bank accounts and financial records to determine whether the transactions are linked to the alleged paper leak network.
Investigators are also analysing digital and technical evidence, and further arrests are considered likely as the probe progresses.
Hajipur Lead Proves Significant
The latest arrests followed the interrogation of Sonu, a cyber café operator arrested earlier in Hajipur, Bihar.
According to investigators, information obtained during his questioning helped the SIT trace Pawan Kumar and Hariom Panu. Officials suspect both were close associates of the alleged mastermind and are examining their exact roles in the operation.
Allegations of Assisting Absconding Accused
The investigation has also revealed allegations that the two accused helped absconding suspects evade arrest.
According to investigative sources, they allegedly arranged vehicles and other logistical support for members of the network. They are also suspected of helping shelter the prime accused, Bijendra Gupta, at multiple locations in Haryana.
Officials said these allegations are being investigated further as they attempt to identify every individual connected to the network.
Raids Continue Across Bihar and Jharkhand
The SIT and other investigative agencies are continuing raids and questioning suspects across several districts of Bihar and Jharkhand.
Officials said agencies from multiple states are coordinating the investigation as they examine the network’s interstate links. The probe remains ongoing, and investigators expect further developments in the coming days.
