A very shocking incident has come to light from Odisha. A 55-year-old man, Bhairaba Sahu, was killed in the Rayagada district of Odisha. The incident took place late night on Monday, April 21. A mob allegedly attacked Sahu on suspicion of practicing witchcraft, police have reported. Following the incident the police have arrested 28 individuals in connection with the brutal murder.
Family Claims Suicide, Police Suspect Foul Play
The story is far from over as the police believe foul play in the incident. Initially a police complaint was filed by the victim’s daughter, Rashmi Sahu following the death of her father. She claimed her father Bhairaba Sahu, had died by suicide. “My father did not harm anyone. I believe he took his own life. We want justice and the truth to come out,” she stated in her complaint.
But, this story did not sit well with the police. The police sources indicate that evidence found at the crime scene strongly suggests a violent assault. The evidence discovered by the Police contradicts the suicide claim.
Investigating Officer Attacked by Mob
The situation escalated further when the officer-in-charge of Padmapur police station was attacked by the mob. According to reports the Police officer who arrived on the scene to investigate the initial report, was also attacked by the mob, The officer sustained severe head injuries. He is currently receiving medical treatment in the Hospital.
A scientific team examined the crime scene after the attack on the Officer. The team recovered sticks and other weapons believed to have been used in the attack. In response to the tense atmosphere in the area the authorities have issued directives. Furthermore, the Additional Superintendent of Police has deployed three platoons of police personnel to maintain peace and order in the area.
Superintendent of Police Confirms Arrests
Meanwhile, the Superintendent of Police for Rayagada confirmed the arrests and detailed the sequence of the events. “The incident happened last night, as some people were involved in a murder case suspected of witchcraft. Some locals attacked him on the spot and, after getting information, the local police reached the scene, then rescued the man. He was rushed to hospital in a serious condition, and he succumbed to his injuries. We have arrested 28 persons in this matter,” the SP stated.
