Dolamani Pradhan, an employee of a finance company, and his cousin Vajrawan Danta have been arrested by the Sadar Police in Balangir for fabricating a theft claim involving his own money. On August 7, Pradhan reported to his company manager that he was robbed of ₹93,000 near Phuljharan village while returning from a cash collection. Following this, the manager filed a complaint alleging that Pradhan was assaulted and robbed by him.
However, police investigations revealed that Pradhan had staged the theft. He had embezzled the money and fabricated the robbery story. During questioning, Pradhan admitted to orchestrating the false report and paying ₹93,000 to his cousin, Danta. He also falsely claimed that his mobile phone was stolen and smashed.
Police have seized ₹63,000 in cash and two mobile phones from the suspects. The remaining stolen funds have been deposited in a bank account and will be seized as well. Both Pradhan and Danta are now in custody and will appear in court. Balangir SDPO Pradeep Kumar Sahu confirmed the details, stating that further legal action will follow.