Sundargarh, Mar 13: In a major anti-corruption drive, the Odisha Vigilance Department on Friday arrested ASI Arupananda Das of Badagaon police station while accepting a bribe of Rs 25,000.

The operation was carried out around 6:30 PM on March 12 following a complaint lodged by local resident Ranjan Das, also known as Munu.

According to reports, ASI Das had allegedly demanded bribe of Rs 25,000 from one Ranjan Das to allow him to run an illicit liquor business near the college underpass in Badagaon. Distressed by repeated demands and harassment, Ranjan approached the Vigilance Department. Acting on the complaint, a trap was laid near a tea stall in front of Badagaon police station, where the ASI was caught red-handed while accepting the money.

The raid was led by Vigilance DSP Rashmita Lakra, assisted by Inspector Shiv Narayan Bhadra, Laxmikant Pradhan, Manas Ranjan Bhoi, and Sunita Oram.

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Subsequent searches at the ASI’s residence yielded Rs 1.57 lakh in cash, 5,000 US dollars, and 15 bottles of country liquor.

The arrest has sparked widespread discussion in the Badagaon area, highlighting growing concerns about corruption within the police force. Vigilance officials confirmed that further investigation is underway.