A shocking murder rocked Nayagarh district when mining mafia members allegedly hacked Ajit Sahu to death near Odagaon late Sunday night, severing his hands and attacking his legs.
Reports said Ajit, along with a few youths, tried to stop trucks illegally transporting stones near Kadalibandha village, about 500 meters from Odagaon police station. The mafia suspected him of being a police informer and launched a violent assault. Witnesses claimed the attackers arrived in a Bolero to protect the trucks and attacked Ajit with sharp weapons. Others managed to escape, but Ajit was trapped and killed.
Locals discovered his mutilated body in the morning, sparking outrage. Villagers staged a six-hour road blockade on the Nayagarh–Odagaon route, demanding the immediate arrest of the killers. Police officials, including the Sharanakula SDPO and Odagaon IIC, reached the spot and assured action, after which the blockade was lifted.
Eyewitness Santosh Kumar Pradhan identified several youths allegedly involved in the attack. Residents alleged that Ajit and others often stopped trucks at night, collected money, and informed police about non-paying vehicles, leading to conflict with the mafia.
The incident has raised serious questions about illegal stone mining in the region. Locals accused mafia groups of operating openly with alleged support from police, politicians, and media representatives. Despite repeated reports of illegal mining, the trade continues unchecked.
A scientific team has begun an investigation, but no formal complaint has yet been lodged by Ajit’s family. The murder has triggered widespread alarm across Nayagarh, with villagers demanding swift arrests and trial of the culprits.
