The Crime Branch of Odisha Police made its first arrest on Tuesday in connection with the May 7 lynching of railway constable Soumya Ranjan Swain in Balianta, near Bhubaneswar. The accused, identified as Judhistir Swain alias Bunty, a 23-year-old local resident, was taken into custody, bringing the total number of arrests in the case to 12.
Earlier, Balianta police had arrested 11 men, most of whom are farmers or shop assistants from the area. A Crime Branch official stated that more arrests are expected as additional suspects have been identified through video footage and are currently absconding.
Details of the Incident
Investigations have revealed that several suspects were intoxicated at the time of the incident. They were present in their villages and rushed to the spot upon hearing of the altercation. They brutally assaulted Swain, tying his hands and feet to a pole, without knowing the background of the matter, the official added.
The probe also uncovered fresh video evidence showing a scuffle within the mob itself, as some individuals attempted to stop the attackers. It appeared that certain men in the group tried to prevent the lynching and clashed with the assailants. The Crime Branch will trace those people and record their statements as witnesses, the officer said.
Challenges in Investigation
Crime Branch officials faced challenges in collecting forensic evidence, as the crime scene was not sealed by Balianta police and was found contaminated. Despite these hurdles, the investigation is progressing.
Director General of Police Y B Khurania reviewed the progress on Tuesday and stated that the investigation is moving in the right direction. All angles are being examined, and the perpetrators will face exemplary action, Khurania said.
Background of the Case
The Crime Branch inquiry revealed that Swain was in a hallucinatory state, probably due to a suspected overdose of steroids, traces of which were found in his blood. He reportedly mistook a woman on a scooter for another woman who had filed a sexual harassment case against him in 2021. According to the woman's complaint, Swain assaulted her and attempted rape. Locals intervened, leading to the fatal mob attack in front of police personnel.
The incident sent shockwaves across the state, prompting Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi to reprimand the commissionerate police for inaction and order a Crime Branch probe on May 9. Four police personnel were suspended, and the Balianta inspector-in-charge was transferred.
