Buried Treasure? Police Dig Up Crores in Cash from Drums in Prayagraj
Police in Prayagraj uncover three steel drums filled with 500-rupee notes buried deep underground at a residence. Investigation underway.
In a scene straight out of a thriller, the police in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, have uncovered a massive hoard of cash buried deep beneath the floor of a residential house. The discovery, which took place in Baraipur Ramnagar village under the Nawabganj police station's jurisdiction, has sent shockwaves through the local community and triggered a high-level investigation into the origins of the wealth.
The Great Dig: How the Cash Was Found
The operation unfolded over two days, starting on the evening of Wednesday, October 28, and continuing through October 29, 2026. Acting on specific directives from the Police Commissioner and Additional Police Commissioner, a joint team from the Nawabganj and Soraon police stations conducted a search at the premises.
Investigators discovered three steel drums wrapped in black plastic sheets, buried approximately five meters underground. Upon opening the drums, officials found them packed to the brim with bundles of 500-rupee notes.
How Much Money? Estimates Clash with Rumors
While the sheer volume of currency is undeniable, the exact amount remains a subject of intense speculation. Initial estimates from the police suggest the recovered cash ranges between 4 crore and 10 crore rupees.
However, the discovery has sparked wild rumors within the village, with some locals claiming the total amount could be as staggering as 60 crore rupees. Addressing the discrepancy, DCP Gangapar Sonam Kumar clarified that the final figure will only be confirmed once the official counting process is completed.
The Mystery of the Yadav Family
The residence where the money was hidden is linked to the Yadav family, specifically Rakesh Yadav and his brother, Rajesh Yadav, who is also known as Babloo.
Investigators are paying close attention to Babloo Yadav's history. Reports indicate that he previously resided in Pune and returned to his native village during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown. A key theory being explored by authorities is whether the currency was transported in bags and hidden during the period of demonetization.
Investigation and Next Steps
The operation was supervised by DCP Gangapar Sonam Kumar and ADCP Pushkar Verma as part of a larger initiative to resolve pending theft and burglary cases. Following the discovery, the police have taken the following actions:
- Seizure: The entire cache of cash has been seized and sealed.
- Tax Authorities: The Income Tax Department has been notified to assist in tracing the source of the funds.
- Detentions: One individual has already been taken into custody for questioning.
Adding another layer of intrigue to the case, investigators are also probing claims that the discovery may have been triggered by a dispute between the residents and their neighbors.
As the counting continues, the police are working tirelessly to determine the exact source of the funds and identify any other individuals who may have been involved in concealing this massive fortune underground.