Soro, Sept 20: The Vigilance Department on Friday arrested Hrushikesh Bishwal, the officer-in-charge of Anantapur outpost under Soro Police Station in Balasore district, while he was allegedly accepting a bribe of ₹15,000 for releasing a seized motorcycle.

According to sources, around 15 days ago, a youth riding a bike towards Anantapur accidentally hit a bull lying on the road. The locals rescued the injured rider and admitted him to a nearby hospital. Following the incident, police from Anantapur outpost arrived at the scene and seized the motorcycle for investigation purposes.

Subsequently, when the youth approached the police to get his bike released, Officer Bishwal allegedly demanded ₹15,000 in bribe. Acting on a complaint, the Vigilance team laid a trap and caught the officer red-handed while accepting the money.

The incident has sparked concern among local residents, and a wave of unease has reportedly spread among some officials at Soro Police Station. There are growing calls for strict action against other officers involved in corrupt practices.

The Vigilance Department has launched a detailed investigation into the matter.