The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has intensified its probe into the OdishaPolice Sub-Inspector recruitment scam, taking key accused Arabinda Das on a two-day remand for detailed interrogation. Arabinda, who had been in charge of the Digha model centre, was questioned extensively regarding his alleged involvement in the examination irregularities.

CBI Probing Suspected 110 Candidates Who Paid Rs 25 Lakh Each

According to reports, investigators expect Arabinda’s interrogation to help identify 110 individuals who allegedly paid Rs 25 lakh each to secure their appearance in the exam. Before placing Arabinda on remand, the CBI had taken Lokanath Sahu, Taufim Ahmad Khan, Biswajit Harichandan and Biswaranjan Behera on a three-day remand, during which several crucial details reportedly surfaced, including links extending beyond Odisha.

The questioning also pointed to the involvement of Jayant Yadav, a broker from Bihar, believed to have handled the technical operations of the scam, including the alleged hacking. Based on preliminary findings, the plan involved deploying dummy candidates inside examination halls. These candidates were reportedly instructed not to touch the computer keyboard, as the actual answers were to be submitted remotely from a separate control room.

Modus Operandi in Online and Physical Tests

Reports further indicated that the scam extended beyond the online written exam. Similar arrangements were allegedly made during the physical fitness test, where roll numbers were pre-assigned with instructions for cheating. Since certification of a candidate’s physical fitness required approval from OPRB (Odisha Police Recruitment Board) members, investigators are examining whether officials within the board were complicit. Whether their names will emerge as the probe advances remains to be seen.

Although ITI Ltd and OPRB have not been named in the CBI FIR, sources said that officials from both organisations may be questioned later based on the statements of the arrested accused and candidates.

Also Read: Odisha Police SI recruitment scam: Four accused, two aspirants quizzed by CBI

More Accused Likely to Face Remand

Sources also indicated that the CBI may soon seek the remand of Suresh Nayak for further interrogation as part of its ongoing investigation into the recruitment scam.