Bhubaneswar: The Commissionerate Police in Odisha have arrested Priyabrata Mohanty in connection with an alleged ₹55 lakh fraud involving a woman who was promised land in Bhubaneswar. According to the police, Mohanty had been absconding for a long time and several fraud cases had already been registered against him at different police stations. Investigators have described him as an alleged habitual and professional fraudster.
The case came to light after Sanghamitra Sahoo approached Pahala Police Station and filed a complaint against Mohanty. Following the complaint, police launched a search for the accused and began gathering information about his movements and possible locations. A police team eventually arrested Mohanty on Thursday. He was subsequently produced before a court.
According to the police, Mohanty allegedly assured the woman that he would arrange land for her in Bhubaneswar and took ₹55 lakh from her on the basis of the promise. However, the land was allegedly not provided and the accused reportedly avoided returning the money. After receiving the complaint, investigators began examining documents and other evidence related to the alleged transaction, along with the accused’s previous criminal record.
During the investigation, police found that several cases involving alleged fraud had previously been registered against Mohanty at different police stations. Officials said he had been absconding for a considerable period and had allegedly been changing his location to avoid arrest. Investigators are now questioning him to determine whether other people were also allegedly targeted using a similar method.
The cases linked to Mohanty reportedly include allegations involving rented vehicles. Police said he allegedly obtained cars on rent from different agencies and subsequently sold them. The information has prompted investigators to examine whether the accused had been carrying out financial fraud through multiple methods over a longer period.
Bhubaneswar Zone-4 ACP Abhimanyu Nayak said the accused has been identified as Priyabrata Mohanty and is a resident of the Jagatsinghpur Town Police Station area. He said the police initiated action after Sanghamitra Sahoo lodged a complaint at Pahala Police Station. Following a search operation, Mohanty was arrested on Thursday and later forwarded to court.
After his arrest, police examined his previous records and found information about several cases registered against him. Investigators are now trying to establish whether the alleged ₹55 lakh land fraud was an isolated incident or part of a broader pattern involving other victims and similar transactions.
The Commissionerate Police have also appealed to other people who may have allegedly been cheated by Mohanty to come forward and file complaints at the nearest police station. Officials believe that information from additional complainants could help establish the full extent of the alleged fraud and identify the accused’s operating pattern.
Further investigation is underway. Police are questioning Mohanty to determine how the alleged ₹55 lakh was used, whether any forged land or property documents were prepared and whether other individuals were involved in the transaction. Investigators are also examining financial transactions and records connected with the earlier cases registered against him.
The police have advised people to independently verify ownership documents, land records and registration details before entering into property transactions or making large payments. Proper verification of property documents and ownership status can help prevent fraud, particularly in cases where large amounts are demanded in advance.
Investigators are currently collecting documentary and financial evidence in the case against Mohanty. Details emerging from other possible complainants, bank transactions and property records are expected to help determine how many people may have allegedly been targeted and how the ₹55 lakh collected in the present case was ultimately used.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
