TV
An engineer from Odisha was reportedly duped to the tune of Rs 2 lakh by a fraudster impersonating an official from Chief Minister Mohan Majhi's Office. Pratap Kumar Haripal, a Superintending Engineer with the Kothabadi Division in Angul Road, was scammed by the impersonator claiming to be a senior official from the CM’s office.
The situation worsened when the accused demanded Rs 5 lakh more. With no other option, Pratap later lodged a complaint with the Airfield Police Station in Bhubaneswar. The police are yet to arrest the accused, identified as Janaki Ballav Mohapatra.
Allegation Details
According to the complaint, a man named Janaki approached Pratap, claiming to be an employee from the Chief Minister's Office. He allegedly threatened Pratap with a transfer to Malkangiri unless Rs 2 lakh was handed over.
Concerned about the potential repercussions from such an authoritative office, Pratap reportedly agreed and delivered the money to Janaki's residence in Bhimtangi. The demands did not stop there, as Janaki later allegedly demanded an additional Rs 5 lakh, a demand Pratap refused to meet.
Rising Threats
After refusing to pay further, Pratap claims he received threats and was verbally abused, with Janaki allegedly menacing him with threats to his life. Feeling trapped and without alternatives, Pratap lodged a formal complaint with the Airfield Police Station, seeking protection and justice.
Police Investigation Underway
Local police authorities have commenced an investigation into the incident to verify the claims and apprehend the perpetrator.
