admin@bhaskarnewspaper.com
Patna: The Bihar Economic Offences Unit (EOU) has intensified its crackdown on alleged organized land-grabbing networks in the state and has begun formal proceedings to seize assets linked to two alleged land mafias, Guddu Yadav of Jamui and Santosh Kumar, also known as Santosh Don, of Patna/Nalanda.
Intimidation and Alleged Land Fraud
According to investigators, the alleged networks acquired land through intimidation, manipulation of official records and fraudulent property transactions. The investigation indicates that the groups allegedly:
- Manipulated land records: Worked with individuals in revenue offices to alter or manipulate official property records.
- Pressured landowners: Used threats and intermediaries to force property owners to sell land at significantly reduced prices or kept them involved in prolonged legal disputes.
- Undervalued properties: Registered properties at values below the applicable circle rates, allegedly to reduce government revenue and registration charges.
Raids and Case Details
Guddu Yadav (Jamui): On July 28, 2026, the EOU carried out simultaneous raids at 25 locations associated with Guddu Yadav and his alleged associates across Jamui and Sheikhpura. Officials reportedly recovered around ₹34.19 lakh in cash, ammunition, a firearm and numerous documents related to land transactions. Yadav is facing 39 criminal cases across several districts. His wife, Dulari Devi, is the current Chairperson of the Jamui Zila Parishad.
Santosh Don (Patna/Nalanda): On June 13, 2026, the EOU registered a case against Santosh Don and 25 alleged associates. He is facing 31 criminal cases in Patna and Nalanda. Investigators allege that the network accumulated more than ₹13.30 crore in illicit assets over an eight-year period through at least 75 allegedly fraudulent property registrations.
EOU Moves Toward Asset Seizure
The EOU is now proceeding with steps to attach the properties allegedly acquired through criminal activities under Section 107 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). The agency is seeking court approval for the confiscation of suspected proceeds of crime as part of its efforts to dismantle the financial networks associated with the alleged land-grabbing operations.
