<h1>Money laundering probe under PMLA targets Rs 500-crore medical supply scam involving officials and firms</h1> The Enforcement Directorate conducted searches in multiple locations in Chhattisgarh as part of a money laundering investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act related to an alleged Rs 500-crore medical supply scam. The probe follows a chargesheet filed by the state Anti-Corruption Bureau/Economic Offences Wing against six individuals and several firms for irregularities in medical equipment and reagent purchases between January 2022 and October 2023. Allegations include collusion between government officials and suppliers, inflated pricing, and procurement without assessing actual requirements, causing significant financial loss to the state. Key accused include officials from the state medical services corporation and directors of implicated firms. Arrests were made earlier in the year. The investigation highlights discrepancies such as exorbitant pricing of medical supplies compared to market rates, indicating potential corruption and financial misconduct.