Even after the deaths of gangster-politician Atiq Ahmed and his brother Ashraf, the UP Police continue to trace and seize properties allegedly acquired through crime. In the latest action, police attached land worth around ₹110 crore under the Gangsters Act and installed a government notice board at the site. The Cantonment police carried out the operation following an order from the Prayagraj Police Commissioner’s court.
Over 20 Bighas of Land Attached
Police said they attached 20.38 bighas (5.112668 hectares) of land in Mauja Bhiti and Mauja Katahula Gauspur. Investigators claim Atiq Ahmed bought the land using money earned through criminal activities. They also alleged that he forced people into selling the land at very low prices and later registered it in the names of his close associates.
Police Allege Land Bought Through Benami Deals
According to the investigation, Atiq Ahmed arranged the registration of 12.9544 hectares of land in Mauja Bhiti, Katahula Gauspur, Shahpur Pipal and Mandari in the names of trusted associates. Officials said the government’s valuation of the land stood at ₹9.96 crore, but the registration took place for only ₹1.36 crore in the name of Madan Lal Bhartiya, a man from the Dalit community.
Police now estimate the current market value of these properties at nearly ₹250 crore.
More Action Likely
Officials said they are identifying people who helped Atiq Ahmed’s gang acquire or manage illegal properties. Police plan to register cases against anyone found involved and take legal action.
They also confirmed that the investigation into other properties linked to Atiq Ahmed’s crime network is still underway. Any assets found to have been purchased through illegal means will face similar action under the law.
102 Criminal Cases Against Atiq Ahmed
Police records show that Atiq Ahmed faced 102 criminal cases across UP. During the attachment drive, Cantonment SHO Amarnath Rai, Naib Tehsildar Piyush Kushwaha, and a large police force remained present at the site.
