The Odisha Crime Branch achieved a major breakthrough in the Balianta murder case by arresting Panchanan Badjena alias Kalia and Ranjit Rana, the main culprits behind the brutal assault that occurred on May 7, 2026, in the Bhingarpur–Kaja area under Balianta Police Station.
Acting on concrete evidence, the CID Crime Branch team apprehended the duo from Ranpur jungle in Nayagarh district on May 19. Investigators confirmed their involvement in assaulting the deceased, marking a crucial step forward in the probe.
The case, registered under sections 103(1)/3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, has seen rapid progress since the Crime Branch took charge. So far, 15 accused persons have been arrested, including 11 detained earlier by local police.
Officials said the investigation continues on a priority basis, with efforts underway to trace and arrest other individuals linked to the crime. The CID team has been working under the direction of senior officers to ensure swift justice in the sensational case that shocked the state.
