CBI seizes more cash in DIG Bhullar case

The noose around suspended DIG Harcharan Singh Bhullar tightened further on Tuesday as the CBI uncovered fresh layers of assets, allegedly linked to him, during coordinated searches across Patiala and Ludhiana districts, sources privy to the ongoing investigation said on Tuesday.

The searches were conducted simultaneously at Baukar Gujiran, Kalas Khurd, Machhiwara Khas, Sainsowal Kalan (all in Ludhiana district), and two upscale Patiala addresses—1, Green House, New Moti Bagh Colony and 15, Sira Complex, Lower Mall. Each location was linked to individuals suspected of helping Bhullar channel and invest ill-gotten wealth into immovable assets and related ventures.

CBI teams seized Rs 20.5 lakh in cash, an Apple laptop, two mobile phones, and a CCTV DVR, along with more than 50 property-related documents, including sale deeds, transaction papers and expressions of interest for real-estate ventures. Company formation and money transaction records were also seized.

“All seized items are under forensic examination to establish their connection with Bhullar’s disproportionate assets,” said an official source. “The documents suggest a wider web of transactions and possible layering through proxies,” he added.

Investigators revealed that several property deeds and transaction files carry names of individuals who appear to have acted as fronts for Bhullar, holding land and assets on his behalf. The CBI is now verifying digital communications and banking trails to map the flow of funds and cross-check ownership patterns with revenue records.