Bhubaneswar, Odisha : In a significant anti-corruption operation, Odisha Vigilance sleuths on Monday apprehended Sri Jagaa Bariha, Sub-Inspector of Police, Bijepur Police Station in Bargarh district, while accepting a bribe of ₹7,000 from a local scrap dealer.

According to the Vigilance Directorate, the accused SI had initially demanded ₹10,000 from the complainant to ensure smooth running of his business without harassment or false cases. When the scrap dealer expressed his inability to pay the higher amount, Bariha agreed to accept ₹7,000 but simultaneously threatened strong action if the amount was not handed over.

Acting on a detailed complaint, Vigilance officers swiftly laid a trap and caught the SI red-handed. The entire bribe money of ₹7,000 was seized from Bariha’s possession in the presence of witnesses. Officials confirmed that the cash tested positive for chemical traces during the demonstration.

Following the trap, simultaneous searches are being conducted at three premises linked to the accused SI to examine any disproportionate assets (DA). The vigilance department suspects that Bariha may have amassed wealth beyond his known sources of income.

A formal case has been registered under Sambalpur Vigilance PS Case No.16 dated 24.08.2025, U/s-7 of the PC (Amendment) Act, 2018. Investigation is underway to gather further evidence and establish the extent of the officer’s misconduct.

The Odisha Vigilance has intensified its crackdown on corrupt officials across the state, with this case adding to a growing list of successful trap operations. Authorities reiterated their commitment to eliminating corruption in public service and urged citizens to report such incidents without fear.

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