Berhampur: Two persons were arrested by the police for allegedly carrying illegal firearm at Bhanjanagar town in Odisha’s Ganjam as security was tightened across the district following the murder of BJP leader and senior lawyer Pitabas Panda.
Police sources said the accused were apprehended near Bisoi Chhak late on Thursday night during routine patrolling. A pistol, three live bullets and magazine have been seized from their possession.
Police had stepped up patrolling in Ganjam district, particularly during night time after Pitabas Panda was shot dead at point-blank range in full public glare in Berhampur on Monday.
During patrolling in the area, police personnel spotted two men near a roadside eatery. On seeing the police, the two immediately left the spot and tried to hide. Noticing their suspicious behaviour, the police team followed the two, who started hurling abuses. One of them suddenly brandished a gun but he was overpowered and disarmed by the cops. They were taken into custody and the arms and ammunition recovered from their possession.
Both were produced in court on Friday. A case has been registered and investigation is underway to ascertain the source of firearm and motive behind procuring it. Preliminary investigation revealed that both the accused were history-sheeters.
