Nagpur: The Nagpur district highway police seized ₹60 lakh in unaccounted cash from a vehicle occupied by four intoxicated youths near Pardi (Heti) on Thursday evening. The vehicle, a Harrier SUV (registration number CG-24/P-4773), was en route from Bhopal to Raipur when it was intercepted at the Patansawangi highway post under Saoner Police Station limits.

The operation was led by Assistant Police Inspector Suhasini Sahastrabuddhe and her team, following a tip-off about a suspicious vehicle heading toward Nagpur. Acting swiftly, the highway police intensified patrol checks on the Bhopal-Nagpur Road and stopped the targeted SUV.

Upon inspection, all four occupants, including the driver, were found to be under the influence of alcohol. A search of the vehicle led to the discovery of ₹60 lakh in cash. As soon as the money was recovered, the youths began making frantic phone calls, raising suspicion among the authorities.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the group had started their journey from Bhopal and were headed to Raipur. Sources claimed that the individuals may be linked to a prominent spiritual preacher and possibly associated with a chief minister from another state.

Superintendent of Police Harssh Poddar and DySP Anil Maske of Saoner Division were immediately informed of the development. Further investigation is underway to trace the origin and intended use of the seized cash, and whether it is linked to any political or financial irregularities.

Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of a larger network behind the transfer, and relevant enforcement agencies are likely to be roped in as the probe deepens.