Dhenkanal, April 22 : Amid the ongoing census drive in the state, incidents of crime under the guise of census verification have sparked concern. A shocking case has been reported from Giridhar Prasad village under Rasol police station limits in Dhenkanal district, where a miscreant allegedly posed as a census official to gain entry into a house, misbehave with a woman, and loot valuables.

According to reports, the incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon when the accused entered the house on the pretext of conducting a census survey. He questioned the woman and asked her to bring Aadhaar cards of family members. Noticing that she was alone at home with two minor children, the accused allegedly threatened her by placing a knife on one of the children’s neck. He also reportedly misbehaved with the woman.

However, the woman showed presence of mind by locking the door from inside and raising an alarm. Startled by the situation, the accused fled the scene. It is alleged that he escaped with gold ornaments from the house.

Following the incident, the victim lodged a complaint at Rasol police station. Police have registered the case and launched an investigation, but the accused is still at large.