BERHAMPUR: Hours after a 30-year-old man was brutally attacked with swords along a crowded road in Badabazar area, one of the two accused was nabbed following a shootout with police late in the night on Sunday.
Berhampur SP Saravana Vivek M said prime accused Jagannath Sahu (33) sustained bullet injuries to both his legs in the encounter with police. Another accused and Jagannath’s brother Balaram Sahu (35) is absconding.
On Sunday evening, Jagannath and Balaram reportedly assaulted Mangala Behera with swords in full public glare, leaving him critically injured. A video of the brutal attack went viral on social media, sparking outrage across the state.
The SP said after receiving information about the incident, police launched an investigation and swiftly arrested Jagannath. A police team took the accused to recover the weapon used in the crime. On reaching the spot, Jagannath allegedly hurled bombs at the police officers accompanying him. Police subsequently opened fire in self-defence, injuring the accused in both his legs.
Police said the attack on Mangala stemmed from past enmity. Both the victim and accused brothers are residents of Laxmi Nrusingha Sahi under Badabazar police limits. Mangala had reportedly hurled bombs at the house of Jagannath and Balaram about a month ago.
Following the incident, he was arrested and remanded in judicial custody. Mangala secured bail and was released from jail three days ago. After coming to know about Mangala’s release, the accused brothers attacked him, said police.
Mangala is reportedly involved in four criminal cases. Similarly, Jagannath has nine criminal cases registered against him in Badabazar and Sadar police stations.
Accused Jagannath and Mangala have been admitted to MKCG Medical College and Hospital. While the victim’s condition is reportedly critical, police said Jagannath would be arrested after his discharge from hospital. Efforts are underway to nab Balaram who is on the run. Further investigation is underway.