A youth was beaten to death in Sardul village under Bhanjanagar police limits after locals suspected him of theft.
The deceased has been identified as Bandhar Pradhan of Kurumungia village in Kandhamal district.
According to reports, villagers caught two men allegedly attempting theft late Friday night. One of them managed to escape, while the other was captured. The mob tied him up and assaulted him severely.
Police reached the spot and rescued the youth in critical condition. He was admitted to Bhanjanagar Medical, where doctors declared him dead.
The incident has triggered tension in the area. Police have set up a camp in Sardul village to maintain law and order. Investigations are underway to identify those involved in the assault.
Authorities confirmed that the case will be treated as murder, and strict action will be taken against the perpetrators. The incident highlights the dangers of mob justice and raises concerns about rising vigilante violence in rural Odisha.
