Recovery of 52 kg Gold and ₹10 Crore Cash from a Deserted Vehicle in Bhopal
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Bhopal, Dec 20 (NationPress) The Income Tax Department has successfully recovered 52 kg of gold and ₹10 crore in cash from a deserted vehicle in Bhopal after conducting hour-long investigations related to a disproportionate assets case involving former RTO Constable Saurabh Sharma, as confirmed by an official on Friday.
The investigations took place at locations associated with Sharma, who transitioned into the real estate sector after voluntarily retiring from his role in the state government's Transport Department.
According to sources, the vehicle was discovered abandoned in the Mendori village jungle, situated near a dense forest area and the Kaliasot Dam, approximately 15-20 km from Sharma's home in Arera Colony, where the raid occurred on Thursday.
The operation was a collaborative effort between the Madhya Pradesh Lokayukta's Special Police Establishment (SPE) and the Income Tax Department, targeting both Sharma's residence and that of his associate, Chandan Gaur.
The gold, uncovered late Thursday night, is estimated to be worth ₹42 crore.
This seizure has heightened scrutiny on Sharma and Gaur, who are already facing investigation regarding disproportionate assets.
During the search, the Income Tax team also found documents related to investments in various properties, a hotel, and a school. The properties connected to Sharma are spread across multiple districts in the state.
Sharma, originally from Gwalior, had joined the MP government's transport department through a compassionate appointment following his father's demise.
Initially described as a 'simple man' upon his appointment, Sharma's lifestyle underwent a significant transformation, leading to a dramatic increase in his assets over his 12 years of service, which raised suspicions among authorities.
Following disputes with bureaucrats and complaints regarding a school allegedly constructed on government property, Sharma opted for early retirement to concentrate on his real estate endeavors.
Both Sharma and Gaur are facing charges under the Prevention of Corruption Act, with ADG Lokayukta Jaideep Prasad confirming that investigations are ongoing.
Authorities suspect that the gold and cash retrieved from the abandoned vehicle could be part of the illicit wealth accumulated by Sharma and Gaur.
As the investigation progresses, further revelations are anticipated.
