Nuapada/Balangir, Oct 25: Odisha Vigilance has arrested Babulu Suna, a senior assistant and in-charge of the Establishment Section at the Office of the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Sunabeda Wildlife Division, Nuapada, for allegedly misappropriating government funds amounting to Rs 2.60 crore through fraudulent bills under the Modified Assured Career Progression (MACP) and Revised Assured Career Progression (RACP) schemes.

According to Odisha Vigilance, Suna, who had allegedly been absconding for the past six months, was apprehended in Balangir last night. He is being forwarded to the court of the Special Judge, Vigilance, Bhawanipatna.

A verification conducted by Odisha Vigilance into the alleged financial irregularities revealed that the accused had allegedly misused his official position to prepare and process fraudulent arrear bills under the MACP/RACP schemes. Investigators found that the bills were generated using the identities and credentials of former, retired and deceased employees of the Sunabeda Wildlife Division.

The investigation further revealed that the allegedly misappropriated funds were transferred to the private bank accounts of his family members, including his spouse, brother and sister, as well as two close associates.

Vigilance officials also alleged that Suna manipulated official records to secure salary increments beyond his legitimate entitlement. Through excess monthly salary claims over an extended period, he allegedly drew an additional amount of more than Rs 10.58 lakh.

The total amount allegedly misappropriated has been assessed at Rs 2,60,21,306, according to Odisha Vigilance.

In connection with the case, Koraput Vigilance Police Station Cases Nos. 24 and 25 of 2026 have been registered against the accused under the Prevention of Corruption Act and relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

Further investigation into the alleged embezzlement is underway.