Rs 2.5 cr cash, gold and several properties: Raid discloses former constable's enormous wealth

The Bhopal unit of the Lokayukta's Special Police Establishment (SPE) uncovered assets worth crores during a raid at the house of former road transport constable Saurabh Sharma in the upscale Arera Colony on Thursday. The raid was conducted as part of an investigation into a disproportionate assets case.

Officials revealed that cash amounting to Rs 2.5 crore, gold and silver jewelry, and documents related to various movable and immovable properties were seized from Sharma's residence. The estimated total value of these properties could exceed Rs 3 crore. Additional Director General (ADG) Lokayukta Jaideep Prasad confirmed that searches were carried out at two of Sharma’s locations.

The operation began early in the morning at 7 am, with two teams deployed to conduct simultaneous searches. Alongside Sharma's house, the authorities searched the residence of his alleged associate, Chandan Singh Gaur, and a hotel owned by Sharma.

The raid was initiated following an investigation into complaints against Sharma. He had taken voluntary retirement (VRS) from the transport department a year ago after serving for 12 years and is now active in the real estate sector. However, officials allege that he was involved in property dealings even during his government service.

The Lokayukta probe has also revealed that Sharma owns properties in multiple districts, including Bhopal. Investigators have uncovered links to his investments in a hotel and a school, indicating significant financial activity. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are expected to uncover more details.