Bhubaneswar, Oct 17: In a major anti-corruption crackdown, the Odisha Vigilance has seized unaccounted cash amounting to Rs 21,88,620 from Prasanjit Das, Superintending Engineer of the Mahanadi Northern Division, Jagatpur, Cuttack.

Acting on a tip-off regarding the alleged collection of bribes from contractors, a vigilance team intercepted Das late Friday night near AG Square, Bhubaneswar, while he was traveling in an official hired Bolero vehicle. An initial search of his person and vehicle led to the recovery of Rs 7,28,620 in suspected ill-gotten cash.

Following the interception, simultaneous early-morning searches were conducted at his rented apartment at Flat No. D-401, Trident Galaxy, Ghatikia, Bhubaneswar, and his paternal home in Baragada. An additional Rs 14,60,000 in cash was unearthed during the search of his rented flat.

Authorities stated that the engineer failed to provide a satisfactory account for the massive sum, prompting its seizure. Das has been detained and is currently undergoing rigorous interrogation to trace the source of the funds.

Bhubaneswar Vigilance Police Station has registered a formal case (Case No. 24, dated October 16, 2026) under Section 13(2) read with Section 13(1)(b) of the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Act, 2018. Further investigation into the matter is currently underway.