Did the Crime Branch Capture Another Suspect in Odisha's SI Exam Fraud?
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Synopsis
The Crime Branch continues its crackdown on a multi-crore recruitment fraud in Odisha, arresting another key player, Suresh Nayak. As the investigation unfolds, connections to a larger conspiracy are revealed, including a mastermind orchestrating the scam from the shadows. Will justice prevail in this high-stakes case?
Key Takeaways
- Crime Branch arrests another suspect in Odisha SI Exam scam.
- Suresh Nayak linked to critical examination processes.
- Investigation reveals connections to a larger conspiracy.
- Mastermind Sankar Prusty previously arrested.
- Ongoing efforts to restore integrity in recruitment.
Bhubaneswar, Nov 4 (NationPress) The Odisha police have apprehended yet another significant suspect linked to the multi-crore Police Sub-Inspector (SI) recruitment examination scandal, as disclosed by the Crime Branch in their press release on Monday.
The accused has been identified as Suresh Nayak, promoter of M/s Silicon Tech Pvt. Ltd., who was exclusively accountable for the preparation, printing, and distribution of the examination question papers.
It is important to note that the Odisha Police Recruitment Board (OPRB) had assigned the execution of the Combined Police Service Examination (CPSE)-2024 for SI recruitment to ITI Limited, which subsequently subcontracted the task to M/s Silicon Tech Pvt. Ltd.
This private agency then reportedly hired Panchsoft Technologies Pvt. Ltd. to manage critical aspects of the examination process.
During the investigation, the Crime Branch discovered that Sankar Prusty, Director of Panchsoft Technologies Pvt. Ltd., masterminded the entire SI recruitment fraud with the assistance of his associates — Muna Mohanty, Srikanta Maharana alias Rinku, Arabinda Das, T. Abhimanyu Dora, and Priyadarsini Samal.
A previous operation by the Crime Branch successfully led to the capture of Prusty, the alleged mastermind, in Uttarakhand near the Indo-Nepal border, where he was reportedly trying to flee the country.
The Crime Branch further revealed that Nayak had maintained close ties with Prusty.
“Throughout the investigation, it was found that Nayak was in constant communication with the mastermind Prusty. Evidence has shown that Nayak provided refuge to Prusty in his company guest house in Kalkaji, New Delhi, and subsequently warned him to escape from the premises to avoid arrest and investigation, clearly demonstrating their connection,” the Crime Branch stated.
Significantly, the Odisha Police first uncovered the extensive scam by arresting 114 candidates and three intermediaries following the interception of three buses in Andhra Pradesh on the night of September 29.
Several additional associates of the mastermind were arrested in the ongoing investigation.
Point of View
The ongoing investigation into the Odisha SI recruitment scam reveals a deeply troubling breach of trust and integrity in the recruitment process. The Crime Branch's diligent efforts to uncover the truth demonstrate a commitment to justice that is crucial for restoring public faith in law enforcement and recruitment systems.
NationPress
05/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the investigation into the SI Exam scam?
The investigation began following the arrest of 114 candidates and three middlemen during the interception of buses in Andhra Pradesh on September 29, indicating a large-scale examination fraud.
Who is Suresh Nayak in relation to the scam?
Suresh Nayak is identified as the promoter of M/s Silicon Tech Pvt. Ltd., responsible for the preparation, printing, and transportation of the exam question papers.
How did the Crime Branch apprehend the suspects?
The Crime Branch employed investigative techniques that led to the arrest of key figures, including the mastermind Sankar Prusty, who was attempting to flee the country.
What role did Panchsoft Technologies Pvt. Ltd. play in the scam?
Panchsoft Technologies Pvt. Ltd. was engaged by Silicon Tech Pvt. Ltd. to handle crucial aspects of the examination, which became central to the fraudulent activities.
What are the implications of this scam for future recruitment processes?
This scam highlights the need for stricter oversight and transparency in recruitment processes to prevent similar fraudulent activities in the future.
