Five Held For Murder Of Ex-Block Chairman In Odisha’s Ganjam

Berhampur: Police on Monday arrested five persons, including the prime accused, in connection with the murder of Debaraj Sahu, former chairman of Beguniapada block in Ganjam district.

Briefing mediapersons, DIG, Southern Range Satyabrata Bhoi said the arrested are the prime accused Ajay Barik, Balaram Parida, Paban Pahana, Prashant Swain and Gagan Biswal.

Giving the details, he said Debaraj and Ajay were at loggerheads for the last 2 to 3 years.

“In September last year, the supporters of Debaraj had attacked the supporter of Ajay. Following the incident, Ajay had left his house and was looking for an opportunity to take revenge on Debaraj. To eliminate him, he had purchased a gun and several rounds of bullets. As per the plan, Ajay accompanied by some of his associates shot dead Debaraj in the morning hours on January 20 while he was having tea near a tea stall at the Sumandal Chhak,” the DIG said, adding that it was not a political murder, rather a long-standing rivalry.

He said the police have seized 63 live bullets, three mousers and five magazines from the possession of the accused.

The DIG further said that the police will take the prime accused on remand for further interrogation.

Also Read: Ex-Block Chairman Of Beguniapada In Odisha’s Ganjam Shot Dead