In a major anti-corruption operation, the Odisha Vigilance Department on Sunday arrested Vijay Kumar Barik, Inspector-in-Charge of Cuttack CRRI Police Station, on charges of accepting a bribe of Rs 40,000.
According to vigilance sources, Barik was caught red-handed allegedly taking the bribe from a licensed liquor trader near Rajmahal Square in Bhubaneswar. The trap was laid following a complaint by the trader, who accused the officer of demanding illegal gratification in connection with official work.
Following the arrest, vigilance officials searched Barik’s government quarters in Unit-1, Bhubaneswar, and recovered Rs 5 lakh in cash. The source of the recovered amount is under verification. Relevant documents and materials were also seized for further investigation, including probing whether the officer had amassed assets disproportionate to his known income.
The case has renewed concerns over corruption within the system. The vigilance department reaffirmed its commitment to strict action against corrupt practices and encouraged citizens to report such incidents. Legal proceedings under the Prevention of Corruption Act have been initiated, and the investigation is ongoing.
