The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has formally taken over the probe into the Odisha police Sub-Inspector (SI) recruitment scam as reported on Thursday. A case was registered by the Bhubaneswar branch of the CBI following the release of the official notification. A Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP)-rank officer has been appointed to lead the investigation, with a dedicated team formed under their supervision to conduct a detailed inquiry.

Earlier, the investigation was being carried out by the Crime Branch, which has now handed over all related documents to the CBI. The CBI investigation is expected to commence on Thursday. According to reports, while the Crime Branch has already arrested nearly all individuals directly involved in the scam, the CBI will focus on identifying and apprehending those who operated behind the scenes.

Key Associate Arrested 

On Wednesday, the Crime Branch arrested Sagar Gouda, a close associate of the alleged mastermind Shankar Prusty. Reports indicate that Shankar maintained contact with agents through Sagar, who was said to be operating the Digha module linked to the scam.

Further Links To Other Recruitment Irregularities Expected

Sources suggest that the findings of the SI recruitment scam probe may expose connections to other examination-related irregularities. The development comes after the Orissa High Court found the ASO main examination conducted by Silicon Tech unsatisfactory and ordered a fresh test. 

Also Read: Big update in police SI recruitment scam: Crime Branch makes another arrest linked to Shankar Prusty

While the Crime Branch will no longer lead the case, it may assist the CBI if any additional evidence or information emerges during the course of the investigation, as sources said.