Odisha Vigilance on Tuesday launched simultaneous searches across six locations associated with Kartikeswar Behera, the Panchayat Executive Officer (PEO) of Katabhal Gram Panchayat in Baragada district, following allegations of possessing assets disproportionate to his known sources of income.
Kartikeswar Behera, who is currently serving as the PEO of Katabhal G.P and holding additional charge (I/c) of Firingimal G.P and Gourenmunda G.P under Gaisilet Block, came under the anti-corruption agency’s radar after allegations surfaced regarding vast unaccounted wealth.
The coordinated searches are being executed by a high-level team comprising 5 Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs), 8 Inspectors, 2 Assistant Sub-Inspectors (ASIs), and supporting staff. The multi-location drive was authorised through search warrants issued by the Court of the Special Judge, Vigilance, Baragada.
According to preliminary reports, the searches are actively being conducted at the following six properties situated in Baragada district:
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Residential Building: A double-storeyed residential house located at Kandagarh near Gaisilet.
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Commercial Market Complex: A commercial complex consisting of six rooms at Kandagarh.
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Storage Facility: A three-room godown at Kandagarh.
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Under-Construction Property: A massive four-storeyed building currently under construction at Gaisilet.
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Native House: His ancestral village home located at Kandagarh.
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Official Workplace: His office chamber at the Katabhal Gram Panchayat office.
Vigilance officials are currently verifying property documents, bank accounts, vehicle ownership papers, and other financial records linked to Behera and his family members.
In ongoing searches, cash worth Rs.2.98 Lakhs unearthed from Behera’s residential house at Kandagada and seized.
Searches continuing.
Further report follows.
