Berhampur: The Odisha Vigilance unearthed disproportionate assets (DA) during raids on properties linked to a Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) in Ganjam district on Thursday.

Assistant Engineer Panchu Behera, currently posted as SDO at DAHA Irrigation Sub-Division under Bhanjanagar Irrigation Division, came under scrutiny following allegations of possessing assets beyond his known sources of income.

A vigilance team comprising three DSPs, seven Inspectors, and supporting staff conducted simultaneous searches at five locations across the district. During the operation, officials recovered assets worth crores, including cash, immovable properties, and heavy machinery.

During searches, following assets have been unearthed so far: 

• One triple storeyed building with area 3550 Sqft. located at Basant Vihar, Berhampur.
• 5 valuable plots in and around Berhampur town.

The Vigilance Technical Wing is currently carrying out detailed measurement and valuation of these properties.

• Cash Rs.18,90,800/- (cash Rs.15.13 lakhs from residential house at Berhampur and Rs.3, 72,800/- from Govt. quarter at Bhanjanagar).
• 1 Concrete Mixer Machine purchased in the year 2024 for Rs.57 Lakhs.
• 1 JCB Machine purchased in the year 2025 for Rs.37 lakhs.
• 1 four wheeler (Hyundai i-20) and 3 two wheelers.  

Authorities said details of bank deposits, postal savings, and other financial investments are being verified, while the weighment and valuation of gold ornaments are also in progress.

Further investigation is underway to ascertain the full extent of assets and possible irregularities.