Titlagarh Police achieved a major breakthrough in the brutal attack on local businessman Shambhu Prasad Agrawal, arresting three accused, including the mastermind.
The arrested men — Alok Das, Santosh Rana, and Shubham Rana — were allegedly involved in the assault that left Agrawal critically injured.
Investigators revealed that Alok Das planned the attack, while Santosh and Shubham played active roles. Police sources confirmed that Alok and Santosh were previously linked to the high-profile murder of BJD youth leader Abhimanyu Sahu, a case that had stirred statewide attention. Both had served jail terms and were released on conditional bail.
According to reports, Agrawal was returning home from his crusher unit at Kumudipada when the attackers ambushed him near the municipal dumping yard. Despite severe injuries, he managed to reach the police station and lodge a complaint before being shifted to the hospital for treatment.
Police collected evidence from the scene and identified the culprits through surveillance and witness accounts. Preliminary investigation suggests the attack stemmed from a land-related dispute.
Bolangir SP Abhilash G confirmed the arrests and said further investigation continues to uncover the full motive and connections behind the crime.
