A 30-year-old man from Kamata village under Kuliana police limits sustained critical injuries after being shot in an alleged robbery attempt along National Highway 18, near the Baiganbadia-Kuchei stretch in Mayurbhanj district on Sunday.
The victim, identified as Shibananda Barik, was returning to Baripada on his motorcycle after collecting cash from a local liquor outlet when he was chased by four bike-borne miscreants. The assailants reportedly intercepted him near the Kuchei-Baiganbadia road and opened fire, discharging at least five rounds.
According to eyewitnesses, two bullets struck Shivananda—one in his thigh and another in the head. Despite his injuries, the locals’ timely intervention forced the attackers to flee the scene without succeeding in their robbery attempt. The suspects, reportedly communicating in Bengali, are currently absconding.
Shivananda was initially rushed to PRM Medical College in Baripada, but due to the severity of his condition, he was later shifted to SCB Medical College in Cuttack for advanced treatment.
Police have launched a thorough investigation and are examining CCTV footage from the area. Forensic teams have collected bullet casings from the scene, and efforts are underway to identify and apprehend the culprits.
The brazen nature of the daylight attack has raised concerns over safety along Odisha’s highways, especially in remote stretches.
