Vigilance uncovers massive cache of gold and luxury items linked to former Odisha engineer

Bhubaneswar, Aug 12: Vigilance officials today discovered a significant haul of gold, diamonds, and silver jewelry during a raid on properties associated with Tara Prasad Mishra, the former Chief Engineer of Roads & Building (Civil), Odisha.

The raids are part of an investigation into allegations that Mishra amassed wealth beyond his known sources of income. Operations are ongoing at nine locations linked to Mishra in Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and Jharsuguda.

The search has so far uncovered ten high-value flats in Bhubaneswar and Jharsuguda, along with seven plots. Authorities have also detected bank deposits exceeding Rs 2.7 crore and approximately 1.5 kg of gold. In addition, cash amounting to over Rs 6 lakh, two luxury cars—including a Mercedes—and several high-end watches, including a Rolex valued around Rs 13 lakh, were found.

The Vigilance report revealed that Mishra had spent approximately Rs 80 lakh on his daughter's medical education. Investigations are continuing into other deposits and investments in shares and mutual funds. Mishra, who retired from government service last year, had faced scrutiny due to various allegations during his tenure.