Bhubaneswar: In a significant development, Bhubaneswar Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Pinak Mishra confirmed that two prime accused in the shocking daylight murder near Rasulgarh square have been identified.
The brutal killing of Sahadev Nayak, an employee of the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) and a prominent social worker, has sent shockwaves through the city.
Addressing the media, DCP Mishra stated that the two main accused belong to the Kedarpalli slum area, the same locality where the victim resided. “A special team has been constituted to apprehend the suspects. Three other individuals have already been detained in connection with the case,” he added.
The murder, which occurred just 3 kilometers from the venue of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention, has raised concerns over the city’s law and order situation. Bhubaneswar is currently under a heightened security blanket for the three-day international event.
Sahadev Nayak, who also served as the president of the BMC Safai Karmachari Association, was attacked by bike-borne assailants wielding a sword while returning home after dropping his daughter at school. The incident took place on the railway over bridge near Rasulgarh square. The attackers fled, leaving Nayak critically injured. He was rushed to Capital Hospital, where he was declared dead.
Initial investigations suggest that past rivalry between the victim and the accused may have led to the fatal attack. Nayak’s wife alleged that the murder was orchestrated by individuals involved in the illegal drug trade in Kedarpalli, which Nayak had actively opposed.
Odisha Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan assured swift action, stating that the accused would face stringent punishment.
Meanwhile, the Opposition Biju Janata Dal criticized the BJP-led state government, citing the murder as evidence of a deteriorating law and order situation.
DCP Mishra emphasized that the police are committed to resolving the case swiftly, ensuring justice for the victim. A manhunt is underway to apprehend the two prime accused, with officials hopeful of a breakthrough soon.
