In one of the biggest anti-corruption crackdowns in the state’s history, Odisha Vigilance officials have seized over Rs 4 crore in cash from the Bhubaneswar apartment of a senior mining officer, triggering shockwaves across the administration.
Deputy Director of Mines Caught Taking Bribe
Officials of Odisha Vigilance apprehended Debabrata Mohanty, Deputy Director of Mines for the Cuttack Circle, late Monday night while he was allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs 30,000 from a coal vendor.
The arrest led to immediate and simultaneous raids at multiple locations linked to the officer.
Over Rs 4 Crore Cash Recovered From Bhubaneswar Flat
During searches at his apartment in Nature’s Crest, Patia, Bhubaneswar, vigilance teams reportedly recovered more than Rs 4 crore in cash. The money was found stuffed inside trolley bags, cupboards, and other storage spaces within the flat.
Officials said counting is still underway, and the final seized amount may vary after verification.
Simultaneous Raids in Bhadrak and Cuttack
Apart from the Bhubaneswar residence, searches were also conducted at Mohanty’s ancestral house in Bhadrak and his office in Cuttack.
From his office drawer and personal possession, officials seized an additional Rs 1.20 lakh in cash.
Gold and Property Details Surface
Investigators also unearthed approximately 130 grams of gold during the searches.
Further scrutiny revealed that Mohanty owns a two-storey house in Pahala, Bhubaneswar, spread over nearly 2,400 square feet. Authorities are now verifying the source of income and assessing whether the assets are disproportionate to his known earnings.
Mining Sector Under Spotlight
The massive seizure has sent ripples through the state’s mining sector, raising fresh concerns about corruption in mineral administration.
While vigilance officials have remained tight-lipped about further details, the case marks one of the largest cash recoveries ever made by Odisha Vigilance.
The investigation is ongoing, and more revelations are expected as scrutiny of documents, bank accounts, and additional assets continues.