Odisha Doctor In Vigilance Net After Bags Containing Over Rs 1 Cr Cash Found In House

The Vigilance sleuths on Thursday arrested Sukant Jena, a doctor posted at the Charichhak community health centre (CHC) in Puri district, a day after Rs 1.13 crore cash was recovered during searches at his residence on Wednesday.

The Vigilance officers had carried out searches at Jena’s duplex in Kalarahanga area on the outskirts of the Capital City after he was caught red-handed while accepting Rs 8,000 bribe from a patient’s relatives before conducting ceasarian operation.

The recovery of Rs 1.13 crore cash from a government servant’s residence is one of the biggest cash seizures made by the Vigilance directorate so far. Fixed deposits and bank deposits over Rs.38.63 Lakh have also been recovered.

Sources said the unaccounted cash was stashed in three to four bags inside Jena’s residence. “During a search of the house, our teams recovered Rs 1.13 crore cash. Further investigation revealed that Jena has made an investment of Rs 44 lakh towards insurance premiums. We have also detected 3 plots registered in his name,” said Vigilance SP, Anupama James.

The Vigilance SP further said that a Disproportionate Assets (DA) case will be registered against the corrupt government official.

“During initial questioning Jena could not give satisfactory answer on the source of his wealth which we are trying to ascertain. He is also making excuses and a detailed investigation is currently underway. We will bring him on remand for further questioning,” she added.