Police confirmed the murder of an elderly man in Odisha’s Rayagada district after suspicion of sorcery led to a brutal killing.
Officers arrested one accused in Puri while investigating the case.
The victim, identified as Gopal Dora of Doraguda village under Kashipur block, went missing on January 9. His family filed a complaint, prompting police to begin a search. On Thursday, investigators recovered his body from a nullah near the village. His hands and legs were tied, and the post-mortem confirmed homicide.
During questioning, police established that the murder stemmed from suspicion of sorcery. Five suspects were detained for interrogation. One accused, Ishwar Dora, attempted to escape under the pretext of a pilgrimage. With assistance from the Kumbharpada police, the Doraguda police apprehended him in Puri.
Authorities continue to investigate the involvement of others in the crime. The incident has sparked concern in the region, highlighting the persistence of sorcery-related violence in rural Odisha. Police assured strict action against those responsible and emphasised the need to curb such superstitious practices.
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