Bihar EOU Intensifies Probe into Former SDPO's Disproportionate Assets
In a significant development in the disproportionate assets investigation against former Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Gautam Kumar, the Economic Offences Unit (EOU) of Bihar Police has uncovered startling details about his alleged lavish expenditures. Investigators have found that Kumar reportedly spent substantial sums of money on his maid, Paro, also known as Puja, with whom he is suspected to have maintained an extramarital relationship. Furthermore, it is alleged that he assisted in the construction of a house for her, adding a personal dimension to the financial scrutiny.
EOU Team Conducts On-Ground Investigations in Kishanganj
A three-member EOU team arrived in Kishanganj on Saturday, launching a comprehensive investigation at multiple locations connected to Kumar. The team focused its efforts on the District Transport Office (DTO), where they meticulously examined vehicle registration, purchase, and sale documents pertaining to vehicles owned by Kumar and his family members. This step is crucial for verifying the sources of funds against their declared income, aiming to establish any discrepancies or illicit financial activities.
Massive Raids Uncover Extensive Assets and Investments
The recent actions follow a series of raids conducted by the EOU just four days prior, targeting six premises associated with Kumar across Kishanganj, Purnia, Patna, and Siliguri. During these operations, investigators seized a trove of evidence, including:
- Documents for approximately 25 plots of land.
- A four-storey house in Purnia, valued at an estimated Rs 2.5 crore.
- Luxury vehicles and high-end watches.
- Gold jewellery worth Rs 60 lakh recovered from his girlfriend's residence.
- Additional jewellery and cash amounting to Rs 1.37 lakh from his own residence.
These findings highlight the extensive scale of Kumar's alleged assets, which appear to far exceed his legitimate income as a public servant.
Senior Officials Provide Insights into the Ongoing Probe
Nayyar Hasnain Khan, the Additional Director General (ADG) of the EOU, commented on the investigation, stating, "A team led by the investigating officer, Indra Prakash, ASP of EOU, has gone to Kishanganj for investigation. Further investigation and verification is underway to uncover more disproportionate assets." He also revealed that Kumar's 'benami' investments are spread across other states, including West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh, as well as in Nepal. Khan added, "Things will be clear in the next couple of days," indicating that more revelations are expected as the probe deepens.
Alleged Links to Criminal Networks and Hidden Ownerships
Investigators have also uncovered suspicious ownership structures involving Kumar's assets. It is reported that he owned three SUVs registered under the names of his mother-in-law, liquor mafia figure Sanjay Singh, and his driver. Additionally, there are suspicions that a hotel owned by Singh was constructed with financial backing from the former SDPO, who allegedly used the venue for conducting meetings. These connections suggest potential ties to illicit networks, further complicating the case.
The investigation continues to unfold, with the EOU committed to unraveling the full extent of Kumar's alleged financial misconduct and disproportionate wealth accumulation.
