Karwar: Police recovered Rs 1.1 crore cash in an abandoned SUV, near Ramanaguli along NH-63 in Ankola taluk of Uttara Kannada district, on Wednesday.

The vehicle, a Hyundai Creta had parked beside the highway since Monday evening, as noticed by residents. Following the information from the public, a highway patrol unit inspected the vehicle on Wednesday. The verification through the transport department database revealed that the number plate of the vehicle was fraudulent, as it indicated the registration of a Suzuki vehicle with Madikeri RTO. Officials concluded the vehicle was likely involved in Hawala money transportation.

The patrol unit without any supporting documentation transported everything to Ankola police station. Upon thorough inspection of the damaged seats, officers located a steel locker underneath the rear seat containing Rs 1.1 crore in denominations of Rs 500, Rs 200, and Rs 100 notes.

“An investigation is underway to find out the car’s owner and how the money landed here. It is being probed as to why the car was brought to a deserted place and occupants left the cash behind,” police said.

The authorities have registered a case and are proceeding with their investigation into the incident.