Puri: In a significant breakthrough, police have arrested nine persons in connection with the murder of a differently-abled person Harihar Sahu.
According to police, the murder was a result of a long-standing family rivalry and a dispute over a business deal. The accused, including the father-son duo, were found to be involved in the crime.
According to police sources, among the 11 accused in the murder case, nine are minors. Two accused are still absconding.
The arrests were made after a thorough investigation, and the accused were found to be involved in a family feud and revenge over the Khaja business.
Police have seized a sword, two knives, and a dagger from the accused. The minors, aged between 15 and 17, were found to be involved in the crime, which has raised concerns about the increasing involvement of minors in criminal activities.
The Puri SP Pinak Mishra expressed concern over the rising number of minors involved in criminal activities and announced plans to counsel them and their parents. The police are also reviewing cases involving minors in various police stations to take necessary action.
Addressing mediapersons, Puri SP said, “A person was brutally attacked by unidentified miscreants under Town Police limits on August 19. Police rescued him and rushed him to Puri District Headquarters Hospital. He was later shifted to SCB Medical College and Hospital where he was declared dead. Town police registered a case in this connection and formed a special team. The accused involved in the cases were arrested during raids at various places. Two accused are still absconding. Their identities have been established and they will be arrested soon.”
He further said, “Among nine who have been arrested today, seven are children in conflict with law (CCL) and they are under the age of 18. The remaining two accused are major. They have been identified as Bijay Khuntia (45) and Rakesh Khuntia (20). Names of the other seven accused cannot be disclosed as they are juveniles. This murder is a case of revenge over khaja business.”
“Plans are afoot to start counselling sessions for minors involved in criminal activities and their parents. They need special focus and care. We will list out the minors involved in criminal activities and involve non-governmental agencies CWC and host a comprehensive counselling session”, said SP.
