The Sambalpur police in Odisha apprehended two individuals linked to the Excise Department for allegedly misappropriating government funds exceeding Rs 3.67 crore between 2022 and 2025. Among those detained are Sandeep Kumar Pattnaik, a junior assistant currently suspended, and Sarat Chandra Behera, a retired Excise Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI). Another suspect, retired Excise ASI Achyuta Dehury, remains at large in connection with the case.
Authorities uncovered significant financial irregularities during an audit of the Excise Department’s financial records, prompting an investigation into the matter. The police initiated legal action based on a report filed by Ashok Kumar Seth, I/C Deputy Commissioner of Excise (Northern Division), Sambalpur. The case (73/26) was registered by the Ainthapali police on March 9 to probe the extensive fraud.
Investigations revealed unauthorized sanction orders were issued through the IFMS portal in favor of Achyuta Dehury, leading to the improper withdrawal of pension and salary arrears. Moreover, official documents like bill registers and cash books were found to be tampered with and inadequately maintained. Suspicious high-value transactions, including cash withdrawals and transfers to associates, indicated potential misappropriation and diversion of government funds.
Pattnaik, responsible for establishment matters, was arrested on March 28 for his alleged involvement in the misappropriation of funds. Behera, a retired ASI, was also apprehended on March 31. The accused individuals purportedly exploited their official positions to manipulate financial records, create fraudulent sanctions, and divert government money, causing financial losses to the state exchequer.
Law enforcement authorities have seized Rs 23,46,500 from Pattnaik and frozen Rs 44 lakh from the defrauded amount transferred to various accounts. Investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the financial malpractice.
