The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has searched seven locations in Chandigarh and Panchkula in connection with the Haryana bank scam case.

“The case was handed over to the CBI by the Haryana government for investigation. It is alleged that certain officials of IDFC First Bank and AU Small Finance Bank, in connivance with public servants of various departments of the Haryana government, misappropriated government funds through fraudulent means,” said the agency.

“Searches were conducted at seven locations, including residential premises, business establishments and showrooms of jewellers, premises of suspected beneficiaries of the misappropriated government funds, and other private entities connected with the investigation,” it said, adding that 16 accused persons have been arrested in the case so far.