In a major crackdown, Odisha Vigilance officials on Friday seized Rs 2.1 crore in cash during simultaneous raids on the residences of Baikuntha Nath Sarangi, Chief Engineer of the Rural Works (RW) Department, Bhubaneswar. The raids, conducted in Bhubaneswar and Angul, were part of an investigation into allegations of disproportionate assets.
Of the total amount, approximately ₹1 crore was recovered from Sarangi’s flat at PDN Exotica in Dumduma, Bhubaneswar, while ₹1.1 crore was found at his Angul residence.
In a bizarre turn of events, Sarangi reportedly threw bundles of ₹500 notes out of a window in an attempt to dispose of evidence upon spotting the vigilance team. The money was later recovered by officials in the presence of witnesses.
The raids are being carried out by a large team comprising 8 Deputy Superintendents of Police, 12 Inspectors, 6 ASIs, and supporting staff, based on search warrants issued by the Special Judge, Vigilance, Angul.
Raids are underway at the following 7 locations:
-
Double-storeyed house at Karadagadia, Angul
-
Flat No. C-102, PDN Exotica, Dumduma, Bhubaneswar
-
Flat at Siula, Pipili (Puri)
-
Residence of a relative at Sikshyakapada, Angul
-
Paternal house at Lokeipasi, Angul
-
Double-storeyed ancestral home at Matiasahi, Angul
-
Office chamber in the Chief Engineer’s department, Bhubaneswar
Sarangi is under investigation for accumulating wealth beyond his known sources of income. Raids are ongoing as the Vigilance Department expands its probe into the alleged corruption.
