EOU Raids Six Properties Linked to Rohtas Executive Engineer Arvind Kumar Chaudhary in Disproportionate Assets Case
Patna: As part of its ongoing anti-corruption drive, Bihar's Economic Offences Unit (EOU) carried out a major operation on Thursday by conducting simultaneous raids at six locations linked to Arvind Kumar Chaudhary, Executive Engineer of the Minor Irrigation Division in Rohtas. The searches were conducted in connection with allegations that he had amassed assets disproportionate to his known sources of income. Separate EOU teams searched his residences, office, and other premises in Patna, Rohtas, Muzaffarpur, and Banka.
According to the EOU, the preliminary investigation has uncovered evidence suggesting that Arvind Kumar Chaudhary possesses disproportionate assets worth more than ₹11.9 million compared to his known sources of income. Investigators further stated that his accumulated assets appear to be approximately 85 percent higher than his declared and known income, based on the initial assessment.
The Economic Offences Unit said that an FIR in the matter was registered on July 29 at the EOU Police Station under Case No. 15/26. Following the registration of the case, the agency obtained search warrants from the Special Vigilance Court. After receiving judicial approval, multiple teams led by officers of the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) launched simultaneous search operations early Thursday morning.
According to officials, the objective of the raids is to examine assets, bank accounts, investments, immovable properties, financial transactions, and other relevant documents. Investigators are verifying records to determine how the assets were acquired and whether they are consistent with the engineer's declared sources of income.
One of the key locations being searched is a flat in Venus Paradise Apartment in Adampur, Danapur, Patna. In addition, search operations are underway at several other premises in Rohtas, Muzaffarpur, and Banka. Investigators are examining documents, digital records, banking papers, and other evidence that could be relevant to the case.
Sources said that documents relating to property ownership, investments, bank account details, electronic devices, and other financial records are being scrutinized during the searches. Any new information uncovered during the operation will be incorporated into the case file as part of the ongoing investigation.
EOU officials stated that the investigation is currently in its preliminary stage. Once the search operations are completed, all seized documents and digital evidence will undergo detailed analysis. The findings will determine the nature of any further legal action.
In disproportionate assets investigations, agencies typically examine an individual's income, movable and immovable assets, bank deposits, investments, properties held in the names of family members, and other financial transactions. If investigators find assets that cannot be explained by legitimate income, they become a key part of the inquiry.
Legal experts point out that the registration of an FIR or the conduct of search operations does not establish guilt. The investigating agency must present sufficient evidence before the court, and any determination of guilt or innocence can only be made through the judicial process. Therefore, no conclusions should be drawn until the investigation is completed.
The EOU also reiterated that the Bihar government follows a zero-tolerance policy against corruption. Under this policy, action is taken against government officials and employees based on complaints received and evidence gathered during investigations. Officials stated that if the allegations are substantiated, further action will be taken in accordance with the law.
Administrative sources noted that in recent years the Economic Offences Unit has investigated several cases involving corruption, disproportionate assets, and financial irregularities. Such investigations typically involve detailed examination of documentary evidence, bank records, property valuations, and other technical aspects to build a strong case before the court.
The latest operation has attracted significant attention within the state's administrative circles. Experts believe that transparent and impartial investigations of this nature help strengthen accountability in public administration and contribute to efforts to curb corruption.
At present, EOU teams continue to conduct search operations at the identified premises. Once the examination of the seized documents and evidence is completed, the agency will decide on the next course of legal action. Officials emphasized that the investigation is being conducted impartially, in accordance with the law, and on the basis of available evidence.
Attention will now remain focused on the Economic Offences Unit's final investigation report. If the allegations of disproportionate assets are substantiated, further proceedings may be initiated under the Prevention of Corruption Act and other applicable laws. If the allegations are not supported by the evidence, the matter will proceed in accordance with the applicable legal process.
