Itanagar, April 2:
The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) of Arunachal Pradesh has intensified its crackdown on the alleged multi-crore land compensation scam linked to the Lada-Sarli stretch of the Arunachal Frontier Highway, with the arrest of another accused.
Karbia Rebe (39), a resident of Rebe village in East Kameng district, was apprehended in Itanagar on March 31, 2026, after being summoned for questioning. He was produced before a local court on April 1 and subsequently remanded to judicial custody at Jully Jail.
According to ACB officials, Rebe is suspected to be one of the beneficiaries involved in fraudulent claims during the land compensation process. His arrest follows crucial leads uncovered in the ongoing financial investigation tracing the flow of funds. Authorities indicated that the probe is expanding, and further arrests are likely in the coming days, targeting both private individuals and government officials, including personnel from the District Land Settlement and Revenue department.
The case revolves around alleged irregularities in the disbursement of nearly ₹130 crore as land compensation for the 125.5-km Lada-Sarli stretch of the Frontier Highway (NH-913), a strategically significant project aimed at enhancing connectivity along the India–China border in East Kameng district.
Preliminary findings point to widespread malpractice, including inflated compensation claims, fabrication of assets, and diversion of funds. The investigation has already led to multiple arrests. Former District Land Revenue and Settlement Officer Takam Kechak was taken into custody in December 2025 and re-arrested in January 2026. Several middlemen, including Rajo Gyadi, Yayo Yangfo, and Khya Byagang, were also arrested in January for allegedly facilitating bribes amounting to over ₹19 crore in certain segments.
By early February 2026, authorities had arrested at least four individuals and seized approximately ₹11.5 crore in connection with the case.
The ACB is currently conducting package-wise re-verification of land records and compensation claims, following growing public demand for a comprehensive investigation. Calls have also emerged from civil society groups to transfer the case to central agencies such as the CBI and ED for a more extensive probe.
The Lada-Sarli Frontier Highway project is considered vital for strengthening border infrastructure, making the alleged scam a matter of serious concern due to its scale and the involvement of both officials and private beneficiaries.
