Balangir: After the abduction of a newlywed bride at gunpoint by her former lover and his associates in Odisha’s Balangir district, police have formed a special team to trace her and the kidnapper.
As part of efforts to locate the two, search operations are being carried out and police are investigating all aspects of the case, police sources said on Monday.
The incident, which reportedly took place early on Sunday when the bride was proceeding to her in-law’s house after the wedding ceremony, has triggered concern in the region.
Meanwhile
, the accused has been identified as Sanjeeb Sahu alias Buthi of Badachhapapali in Kantamal area of Boudh. He and his associates allegedly intercepted the vehicle of the newly married couple at Badbandh.
According to sources, the groom, Rinku Sahoo of Kamakhi Nagar, had travelled to Kantamal for the marriage. After the ceremony, the accused allegedly stopped their vehicle midway, threatened the groom with a gun and forcibly took the bride away before fleeing. The groom later approached Tarbha Police Station seeking action.
It is alleged that the accused had sent a warning text message to the groom before the wedding ceremony. The groom reportedly informed the bride’s family, but the latter dismissed the claims.
Police said no formal written complaint had been lodged at the time of reporting, but statements are being recorded. Efforts are underway to trace the woman and the accused, and the investigation is continuing, the officials informed.