The Digha Police in Patna recovered a massive amount of cash during a routine vehicle check at the JP Setu check-post. A couple traveling on a scooter was stopped for checking, and officers found ₹12.01 lakh kept in a briefcase. The incident took place on January 28, 2026, when police were conducting searches primarily for liquor and weapons as part of the strict prohibition enforcement in Bihar.
Why did the police stop the scooter?
The police team at the Jaya Prakash Narayan Setu grew suspicious when they saw a heavy briefcase on the scooter. Suspecting it might contain smuggled liquor bottles, they asked the rider, Sonu Kumar, to open it. Instead of alcohol, the bag was filled with 12 bundles of ₹500 notes. Sonu Kumar, a resident of Ranivigha Road Number 4, was traveling to Rasalpur village in Saran district with his wife as a pillion passenger.
Income Tax Department starts investigation
Upon recovering the cash, the police questioned the couple about the source of the money. Sonu Kumar gave inconsistent statements, first claiming he was shifting houses and then hinting at a property deal. However, he could not produce any valid documents or bank withdrawal slips at that moment. Consequently, the Digha Police seized the entire amount under Section 102 of the BNSS and informed the Income Tax Department. The couple has been released with a notice to appear before officials to explain the source of the wealth.
