Section 26. Search and seizure.

(1) If the Lokayukta has reason to believe that any document which, in its opinion, shall be useful for, or relevant to, any investigation under this Act, are secreted in any place, it may authorise any agency to whom the investigation has been given to search for and to seize such documents. (2) If the Lokayukta is satisfied that any document seized under sub-section (1) may be used as evidence for the purpose of any preliminary inquiry or investigation under this Act and that it shall be necessary to retain the document in its custody or in the custody of such officer as may be authorised, it may so retain or direct such authorised officer to retain such document till the completion of such preliminary inquiry or investigation: Provided that where any document is required to be returned, the Lokayukta or the authorised officer may return the same after retaining copies of such document duly authenticated.