Berhampur, Oct 1: In a major crackdown on a job fraud racket linked to the Odisha Police Sub-Inspector (SI) recruitment exam, Berhampur police arrested 119 individuals, including 117 aspirants and two middlemen, late last night, police said on Tuesday.

The arrests were made near the Andhra Pradesh border after police intercepted buses carrying candidates allegedly involved in the scam, they added.

Racket Busted Near Srikakulam Border

Acting on a tip-off, a special team from Golonthara Police Station tracked three buses that had departed from Bhubaneswar’s Baramunda area, carrying aspirants from various districts. The candidates were reportedly being taken for coaching and exam manipulation. Visuals of the buses and the arrests have surfaced, revealing the scale of the operation.

According to sources, the aspirants had paid advance amounts to the middlemen, with promises of securing SI jobs. Further payments were to be made after appointment. The Crime Branch has launched a detailed investigation into the racket.

Also Read: Odisha Police SI Exam Postponed; New Dates To Be Announced Soon

Exam Postponed Amid Investigation

Meanwhile, the Odisha Police Recruitment Board (OPRB) announced the postponement of the written exam for the Combined Police Service Examination-2024, which was scheduled for October 5 and 6. This marks the third postponement of the SI recruitment exam.

“In view of some unforeseen development, the Board decided to postpone the Written Examination CPSE-2024. Fresh dates will be announced later,” the official statement read.

Growing Concern Over Recruitment Scams

The incident has raised serious concerns over the integrity of recruitment processes in the state. Authorities are now under pressure to tighten security and verification protocols to prevent future frauds. The arrested individuals are being interrogated, and further arrests are likely as the investigation progresses, police said.