CBI inquiry reveals Rs 6 crore kickback paid

NEW DELHI: A CBI preliminary inquiry has found that $5.5 million (approx Rs 36 crore according to present exchange rate) was allegedly paid as commission to a middleman

NEW DELHI: A CBI preliminary inquiry has found that $5.5 million (approx Rs 36 crore according to present exchange rate) was allegedly paid as commission to a middleman based abroad in the Embraer deal.

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The agency termed it a ‘breakthrough’ in the case.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has registered a preliminary inquiry in the case and now, the agency may convert it into a regular case by registering a formal FIR as evidence of commission being paid has come up.

The agency sources refused to name or provide location of the middleman.” Sources said $5.5 million was allegedly paid as commission to influence the deal worth $208 million in favour of Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer.

Under the deal, three aircraft for the use of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to mount an air-borne radar system were to be purchased. The deal was inked in 2008.