Berhampur: Police, on Monday, arrested Balaram Sahu alias Balia (26) in connection with the murder of Suraja Behera (58) at Alakapuri 7th Lane under Sadar police station here.
Addressing mediapersons, Berhampur SP Pinak Mishra said Balaram was a steel almirah worker and had visited Beher’s house thrice to repair the lock and key of the storage unit on the afternoon of the fateful day. While repairing the almirah, Balaram noticed the box containing gold ornaments and intended to take the valuables, the SP added.
Suraja’s husband Bijaya Chandra Behera paid Balaram Rs 1,700 as repair charges and he left the house at 3:30 pm. But, Balaram returned to the house by scaling the boundary wall with an intention of theft. He was apparently aware of Bijaya’s routine, as he goes for evening walk at 6 pm.
As he entered the house, Suraja noticed him and threatened to inform the police following which Balaram picked up the kitchen knife and assaulted Suraja in the drawing room, the SP said.
After the assault, Balaram fled with a carry bag, vanity bag and Suraja’s mobile phone. He locked the house from outside with an intention to prevent her from informing anyone. Bijaya returned to the house at 7 pm and found his wife in a pool of blood.
The blood-stained kitchen knife used in the crime, mobile phone of the victim and other materials have been recovered from Balaram, said the SP.
Balaram belongs to Desi Behera Sahi Boirani under Kabisurya Nagar police limits and was staying at Danua Sahi Bhabinipur under Berhampur Sadar PS. A case has been registered and Balaram was forwarded to the court during the day, the SP said.
