A local trader was allegedly beaten to death late Thursday night at Gayatri Basti under the Lingaraj police station limits in Bhubaneswar.
The deceased, identified as Jitu Kandi, was found dead near his shop early Friday morning, his body bearing severe head injuries.
Police reached the spot soon after receiving information and launched an investigation. The body has been sent for post‑mortem, and forensic experts are collecting evidence from the scene.
According to locals, Jitu operated a paan shop and was known to collect money from nearby establishments. Police are probing whether a dispute over such collections led to the fatal assault.
Sources said Jitu was drinking with four persons on Thursday night before the incident. Three suspects — Gangadhar Behera, Chagu, and Babuna Behera — have been detained for questioning, while another, Gopal Das, remains absconding.
Investigators are also examining allegations that Jitu was involved in the illegal liquor trade. His shop had previously been shut down by police but was reportedly reopened. Authorities are exploring whether the murder was linked to events following the group’s drinking session.
