Jharsuguda: In a major breakthrough, police in Odisha’s Jharsuguda district arrested a murder accused, who had been on the run for around 28 years after escaping from police custody in 1998.
Sources said the accused, identified as Nilamani Mahanand (51) of Bhundupali village under Rengali police limits, was arrested from Raigarh in neighbouring Chhattisgarh following a raid based on a tip-off. He was later produced before a court.
The accused, who was nabbed in a case registered under Sections 364, 302, 201, 109, and 34 of the Indian Penal Code, had fled while still in handcuffs during transit in 1998.
According to police, the case dates back to October 9, 1998, when Duryodhan Deep was allegedly murdered over previous enmity. Based on a complaint lodged by the victim’s son at Rengali police station, Nilamani Mahanand, Ram Khadia and Lechi alias Biswanath Kahar were named as the main accused in the murder case.
Police had arrested Nilamani soon after the incident. However, he allegedly escaped from the Rengali police station after seeking permission to use the toilet. The other two accused later secured bail.
He remained untraceable and police tried to locate him all these years. After escaping, he had allegedly concealed his identity by changing his name to Raju Gonda and settled in Raigarh. To build a new life and avoid detection, he reportedly obtained an Aadhaar Card and PAN Card in his assumed name.
After sustained intelligence efforts, meticulous verification, and persistent follow-up, the Jharsuguda Police team finally tracked him down and arrested him. The accused has been produced before the competent court for further legal proceedings.
