Odisha Vigilance Seizes Rs 5 Lakh in Alleged Bribe Case Linked to Rourkela Excise Superintendent

Rourkela / Bhubaneswar, Sept 12, 2026: Odisha Vigilance has reportedly seized Rs 5 lakh in cash in connection with an alleged corruption case involving Rourkela Excise Superintendent Dhaneswar Barad. The cash was recovered after a Mahindra Scorpio was intercepted near the Office of the Superintendent of Excise at Uditnagar, Rourkela.

Scorpio Intercepted Near Excise Office

According to Vigilance officials, the action followed intelligence inputs regarding the alleged collection of money from excise licensees operating in the area. A surveillance team intercepted the vehicle, which was reportedly being used by a salesman associated with a local IMFL wine shop.

During the search, the Vigilance team recovered Rs 5 lakh in cash from the vehicle. Officials said the salesman was allegedly carrying the money for delivery to the residence of the Excise Superintendent.

The cash was seized in the presence of witnesses and as per the procedure followed by the investigating agency. The circumstances surrounding the cash and its intended purpose are part of the ongoing investigation.

Case Registered Under Prevention of Corruption Act

Following the seizure, Rourkela Vigilance Police Station registered Case No. 12 dated September 11, 2026, under Section 13(2) read with Section 13(1)(b) of the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Act, 2018, against Dhaneswar Barad.

Vigilance teams also conducted searches at the Excise Superintendent's office chamber, his residential premises in Rourkela and other locations reportedly linked to the case.

Investigation Underway

The searches are aimed at gathering further evidence and examining the source and purpose of the cash recovered during the operation. Vigilance officials have indicated that additional details may emerge as the investigation progresses.

The allegations and findings remain subject to investigation and any further legal proceedings. Final responsibility, if any, will be determined through the competent legal process.

Note: The information in this report relates to an ongoing investigation. Allegations against any individual should not be treated as established facts unless confirmed through the appropriate legal or investigative process.