Agartala, May 18: Tripura Police have launched a massive investigation after a viral social media video showing bundles of cash allegedly worth several crores of rupees created sensation across the state. Two persons, including a Tripura State Rifles (TSR) personnel and a Health Department employee, have been arrested while more than 15 others are being interrogated in connection with the case.
Police officials said Ajit Debbarma (48), a Rifleman of the Tripura State Rifles, and his wife Menaka Debbarma (45), an employee of the Health Department, were arrested from Abhoynagar on the outskirts of Agartala. Authorities have also detained several others, including police personnel and women, for questioning as part of the ongoing investigation.
The controversy erupted after videos surfaced on social media showing large bundles of Rs 100, Rs 500, and Rs 2,000 currency notes inside a house in the Bhatkhowri area under Salema police station in Dhalai district. The residence reportedly belongs to police constable Piyush Debbarma.
Despite the viral visuals, police have so far not recovered any cash from the house shown in the video. However, officials suspect the existence of a larger organised network involving illegal financial transactions and possible narcotics-related activities.
Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha said he had directed police officials to take strict action immediately after the video came to his notice. “We never protect anyone accused of wrongdoing. Law will take its own course,” the Chief Minister told reporters.
Director General of Police Anurag reportedly expressed strong dissatisfaction over the incident and ordered senior officials to launch an intensive investigation. Following his instructions, Inspector General of Police (Law and Order) Manchak Ipper, DIG Rati Ranjan Debnath, and Dhalai district Superintendent of Police Rushikesh Jaysing Desai supervised raids and interrogations in different locations across Dhalai and West Tripura districts.
Police sources said nearly Rs 5 crore has come under scrutiny during the investigation. Officials are now trying to determine the source of the money and whether it is linked to fraud, illegal financial dealings, or drug trafficking operations allegedly connected to inter-state networks.
