In a major crackdown, the East Champaran district police in Bihar have made public a list of 100 individuals who are absconding and wanted in connection with serious criminal cases. The police action comes amid a noticeable surge in criminal activities within the district over recent months.
List and Rewards Unveiled to Curb Crime Spike
The police department, on Sunday, released the detailed list which includes accused persons involved in grave offences such as murder, robbery, dacoity, extortion, liquor smuggling, and illegal land grabbing. To aid in their capture, the authorities have announced cash rewards for information leading to their arrest. The rewards range from Rs 5,000 to a substantial Rs 1 lakh per individual, with the total reward money amounting to Rs 8 lakh.
Superintendent of Police Swarn Prabhat cited a recent increase in crime as the reason behind this decisive move. He revealed that in the past six months alone, the district has registered 15 murder cases. A majority of these killings are reportedly linked to gang rivalries, power struggles, illicit relationships, and the illegal liquor trade.
SP Prabhat made a public appeal, urging citizens to come forward with any information about the whereabouts of these wanted criminals. He gave assurances that the identity of informants would be kept strictly confidential to ensure their safety.
High-Profile Names and Stern Warnings
Topping the police's most-wanted list is Deva Gupta, who is the husband of Priti Gupta, the current mayor of the Motihari Municipal Corporation. Gupta, who contested the recent state assembly election unsuccessfully on an RJD ticket, finds himself accused in a staggering 28 criminal cases. He is currently wanted in connection with two murder cases, and the police have set a reward of Rs 1 lakh specifically for his arrest.
The Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Champaran police range, Har Kishor Rai, approved the list and issued a stern directive. He warned that those who fail to surrender before the court will face severe consequences, including the confiscation of properties acquired through illegal means. DIG Rai emphasized that surrender is the only viable option left for the fugitives.
Ten-Day Ultimatum and Legal Action
Echoing this warning, SP Swarn Prabhat set a clear deadline. He stated that all the wanted criminals have been given a period of 10 days to voluntarily surrender in court. Failure to comply within this timeframe will trigger the legal process for the attachment of their properties. The SP clarified that all such actions would be undertaken strictly in accordance with the established legal procedures.
An analysis of the published list indicates that the highest number of absconders are those accused in murder cases and offences related to illicit liquor. The list also encompasses individuals wanted for robbery, dacoity, drug trafficking, crimes against women, and the local menace known as "rangdari" (extortion).
This comprehensive police initiative marks a significant step towards tackling the district's crime wave and bringing elusive offenders to justice.
