Bihar authorities seize over Rs 51 lakh cash, jewellery from engineer's in-laws

The Economic Offences Unit (EOU) in Bihar's Muzaffarpur district has launched a major operation against alleged illegal wealth accumulation by a state government engineer. Neeraj Kumar Das, an Executive Engineer with the Planning and Development Department, faced searches at multiple locations following a formal complaint regarding assets exceeding his known income sources.

During the seven-hour operation, authorities recovered approximately Rs 51.5 lakh in cash along with jewellery and precious metals valued in the lakhs. The simultaneous raids targeted multiple properties and residences associated with the engineer and his in-laws' household, where significant portions of the valuables were discovered.

The action represents an intensified crackdown on officials suspected of accumulating unexplained wealth. The EOU typically investigates cases where public servants are found to possess assets substantially disproportionate to their declared income and legitimate sources of funds. Preliminary investigations into the source and legality of the recovered assets are underway, with authorities examining financial records and property documentation.

The case has drawn attention to ongoing anti-corruption measures targeting government employees in the state. Officials indicated that further investigation would determine whether the assets were acquired through legitimate means or illicit channels. The findings will inform potential legal action under applicable anti-corruption statutes.