The Vigilance Department trapped Semiliguda Forester Niranjan Satpathy in a disproportionate assets case and simultaneously raided five different locations.
Acting on allegations of amassing wealth beyond known sources of income, officers searched his official residence and office in Semiliguda. They also raided two properties in Bhubaneswar and one in Jagatsinghpur, while additionally scrutinising bank accounts linked to him.
During the operation, six DSPs, seven inspectors, and several other officials actively participated. Moreover, the Bhubaneswar Vigilance Special Judge directed the raids, ensuring strict legal oversight.
Satpathy had earlier served in various ranges across the Koraput district and was recently transferred from Balda Range to Semiliguda. According to reports, he was scheduled to retire in March 2026. However, Vigilance swooped in before his retirement, thereby raising serious questions about his sudden accumulation of wealth.
Investigators revealed that despite serving in a tribal-dominated district like Koraput, Satpathy allegedly acquired luxurious houses in Bhubaneswar and Jagatsinghpur, along with assets worth crores. Consequently, the revelations have sparked widespread discussion about possible links to timber smuggling and misuse of government projects.
Authorities confirmed that once the raids are fully completed, they will make details of the total assets seized public. Ultimately, the case has intensified scrutiny of corruption within the forest department.
