Balasore witnessed another violent episode late Monday night when two youths were shot near Arada Bazaar under Sahadevkhunta police limits.
The victims, identified as Kartik Prasad alias Gedu (30) and Manoj Kumar Sahu alias Muna (35), sustained serious injuries. Kartik was shot in the back, while Manoj suffered a bullet wound in his left arm.
The attack occurred between 12:30 a.m. and 1:00 a.m. when the duo was reportedly engaged in a scuffle near the market. Eyewitnesses said the assailant suddenly opened fire and fled in a vehicle.
Both injured men were rushed to Remuna Medical College Hospital for treatment. Police have launched a manhunt to trace the attacker.
The incident has sparked concern as it comes just hours after another murder near Station Road, barely 500 meters from the police station. Residents criticised the lack of effective patrolling and expressed fear over rising crime in the city.
Investigators suspect past enmity may have triggered the shooting. Sahadevkhunta police are examining leads and intensifying their probe to restore public confidence.
