EOU Conducts Multi-Location Raids on NBPDCL Engineer in Bihar
The Economic Offences Unit (EOU) of Bihar executed coordinated raids at multiple residential and official premises associated with Manoj Kumar Rajak, an executive engineer currently posted with the North Bihar Power Distribution Company Limited (NBPDCL) in Jainagar. The operation targeted seven distinct locations across Bihar, focusing on properties and investments allegedly accumulated through unexplained means.
Substantial Asset Discrepancy Uncovered
According to official statements released by the EOU, preliminary investigations indicate that Manoj Kumar Rajak has amassed assets valued at approximately 62% more than his legitimate sources of income. This significant disproportion prompted the extensive search operation, which involved EOU officials accompanied by local police personnel.
Key Findings from the Raids
During the meticulous searches, authorities discovered a trove of documents and assets pointing to substantial wealth accumulation. The EOU reported the seizure of 17 land documents originating from Darbhanga, Araria, and Siliguri in West Bengal, with an estimated market value exceeding Rs 3 crore. Additionally, financial documents valued at around Rs 1 crore were confiscated.
The raid also led to the recovery of two four-wheeled vehicles, Rs 4,25,000 deposited in a bank account, and Rs 1,05,000 in cash. These findings collectively underscore the scale of the alleged financial irregularities under investigation.
Network of Properties and Business Ventures
The EOU revealed that the engineer operates a gas agency under the name of his brother, Sanjay Kumar Rajak. This agency, established after purchasing a plot in his brother's name, was subsequently transferred to Manoj Kumar Rajak. Notably, an SUV purchased in the gas agency's name was reportedly being utilized for official duties, with rent drawn from government funds.
Further investigations uncovered ongoing construction projects, including three buildings and a warehouse in the engineer's native village, a warehouse in Nirmali, and a residential house in Darbhanga town. The valuation of these properties is currently underway.
Cross-Border and Familial Connections
In a surprising development, the EOU discovered that Manoj Kumar Rajak allegedly married a close relative in Nepal and is constructing a house in her name at Haripura in Sunsari district, Nepal. Documents were also found regarding land leased for opening a petrol pump on Biraul Path in Darbhanga under the name of his wife, Veenashri Bharti.
Locations Targeted in the Operation
- Manoj Kumar Rajak's office and residence in Jainagar
- His brother Sanjay Kumar Rajak's gas agency office, gas godown, and residence in Karjain (Supaul)
- Gas agency office in Nirmali
- Gas godown in Bauraha
- Engineer's residence in Karjain
The EOU's comprehensive operation highlights ongoing efforts to combat corruption and financial misconduct within public sector undertakings in Bihar. The case remains under active investigation as authorities continue to scrutinize the recovered documents and assets for further evidence.
