​​​​​​​Bhubaneswar, September 2: In a shocking incident that has raised questions on the involvement of security personnel in criminal activities, the Rayagada police have arrested seven individuals, including three home guards and a woman, on charges of looting Rs 9 lakh from a local businessman.

According to police sources, the accused home guards were posted at Bissamcuttack and Kalyansingpur police stations in Rayagada district. Their direct participation in the crime has sent ripples through the law enforcement community, as home guards are generally tasked with assisting the police in maintaining order and supporting law enforcement duties.

Investigations revealed that the arrested woman, who had been working as a maid in the businessman's household, allegedly played a crucial role in the planning of the crime. She is suspected to have shared inside information about the businessman’s financial dealings and movement of cash, which helped the group orchestrate the loot.

The businessman, whose identity has not been disclosed for security reasons, was targeted in a pre-planned operation. The gang managed to decamp with Rs 9 lakh before police acted on specific intelligence inputs and apprehended them.

A senior police officer confirmed the arrests and stated that further interrogation is underway to identify if more individuals were involved in the conspiracy. “The role of home guards in such a crime is highly concerning. We are investigating how deeply they were involved and whether they had any prior criminal record. Appropriate departmental and legal action will follow,” the officer said.

The arrests have sparked widespread concern among locals in Rayagada.