Jagatsinghpur, Dec 21: Vigilance officials have arrested Rahama Forest Ranger Rajendra Kumar Samantray on charges of possessing disproportionate assets.

The officer is scheduled to be produced in court today.

The arrest followed a series of raids conducted the previous day, during which officials uncovered incriminating evidence.

On Saturday, acting on credible information, the anti-corruption wing led by two Addl SPs, 5 DSPs, 8 Inspectors, and other supporting officers conducted raids at multiple premises linked to Samantray.

The raids led to the recovery of documents, property records, and other evidence indicating that Rajendra Kumar Samantaray had amassed assets disproportionate to his known sources of income.

Officials stated that the investigation was part of a larger drive to curb corruption and ensure accountability within government departments.

Samantray, who served as a ranger in the Rahama range of Jagatsinghpur district, was under the scanner for some time after complaints surfaced regarding his alleged misuse of position and accumulation of assets disproportionate to his official earnings.

The vigilance team has registered a case under relevant sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act.

Authorities confirmed that further investigation will continue to trace the extent of assets and identify possible benami holdings.


Also read: Forest Ranger Under Vigilance Scanner For Disproportionate Assets

The arrest has drawn attention in Jagatsinghpur, with residents expressing concern over corruption in public offices.

Officials emphasised that strict action will be taken against those found guilty, reiterating the government’s commitment to transparency and integrity in administration.

Samantray’s arrest marks another significant step in the vigilance department’s ongoing campaign against corruption in Odisha.