Berhampur: The mystery surrounding the murder of Berhampur-based lawyer and senior BJP leader Pitabash Panda is likely to be solved within the next couple of days, as the investigation reaches its final stage.
Southern Range Inspector General (IG) Niti Shekhar on Tuesday said the police have obtained strong leads in the case and will soon reveal the motive and the culprits behind the killing.
“The investigation is in its final phase. Within one or two days, Odisha will know who killed him and why,” the IG said, adding that the truth will be made public through a press conference shortly.
The murder, which took place on the night of October 6, had sent shockwaves across Ganjam district. Panda was shot dead at point-blank range by unidentified assailants while returning home. He was rushed to the hospital, where doctors declared him dead on arrival.
Over the past two weeks, police have interrogated several suspects, including a corporator from Berhampur Municipal Corporation and a student leader.
Sources said around eight individuals are under the police scanner.
Speculation is also rife that the police have detained a local politician in connection with the case. The politician, who already has multiple cases registered against him, is being questioned.
However, the Berhampur police have not yet confirmed any direct link between the politician and the murder.
Earlier reports suggested that police had detained two individuals, including a suspected sharpshooter from Bihar, believed to be involved in the killing. However, no official arrests have been made so far, and the conspiracy behind the murder remains unclear.
The upcoming police press conference is expected to shed light on the motive, masterminds, and execution of the murder that has gripped southern Odisha.
