Kataka: Amid the ongoing probe into the mysterious death of Chauliaganj IIC Beauty Mohanty in Odisha’s Kataka, Director General of Police (DGP) Y B Khurania on Wednesday said that the exact reason behind the incident will be ascertained only after a thorough investigation.
Stating that the case is being investigated from multiple angles, the DGP told reporters that a clear picture about the death of the woman police officer will emerge after completion of probe.
Based on the findings of the investigation, police will take appropriate action in connection with the case, said Khurania.
While the postmortem report of the woman IIC has attributed the death to asphyxia, the investigation in the sensational case has reportedly taken a new turn amid allegation of a blackmail angle.
Though police so far remained almost silent about allegation of blackmail, reports said that call detail records (CDR), mobile phone analysis, questioning of a police ASI, and the postmortem report have become key parts of the ongoing investigation.
Investigators are reported to be examining phone calls, WhatsApp chats, financial transactions, bank account details and digital evidence while continuing to question individuals connected to the case. The postmortem report has confirmed death due to asphyxia, while officials have stated that further expert opinion and the viscera report are awaited before drawing final conclusions.
Officials said the Commissionerate Police are investigating the matter from multiple angles, with a special team consisting of an Additional DCP, an SP, and two Inspectors-in-Charge reviewing all available evidence.
According to Kataka DCP Rishikesh Dnyandeo Khilari, stated that officials have already recorded statements from Mohanty’s husband and her two sisters.
At the same time, police are scrutinising Mohanty’s bank records, call details, and her laptop. Her mobile phone was forwarded to the State Forensic Science Laboratory (SFSL) in Bhubaneswar for an in-depth digital analysis of her WhatsApp conversations, social media interactions, and to identify the individual involved in her final phone call.
Investigation has taken a new turn following allegation that the officer may have been under severe pressure or blackmailed over an illegal sand ghat operating in the Pahala area. Her bank accounts are also being examined to trace any suspicious transactions that could indicate extortion or mental harassment.
According to reports, a major lead has emerged from the mobile phone of an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) who was under suspicion from the beginning. Data recovered from the device has shed light on an illegal sand ghat business in the Pahala area. While no direct evidence has surfaced linking Inspector Mohanty to the racket, police believe she may have been subjected to undue pressure or blackmail because of her knowledge of these illegal operations.
Three other names, including that of a politician, have also reportedly surfaced. They are likely to be questioned after complete analysis of technical evidence.
