In a gruesome incident early Monday in Odagaon, Nayagarh district, a man bled to death on the road after his hands were chopped off by a group of miscreants. The victim, identified as Ajit Kumar Sahoo (38), a resident of Khelapadia Sahi, was allegedly involved in extorting money from trucks transporting illegally mined laterite stones.
Sequence of Events
According to preliminary investigation, Sahoo, along with his associate Santosh Kumar Pradhan (36), intercepted two trucks loaded with laterite stones at Kadalibandh around 12:50 am. They demanded money from the drivers. One of the truck drivers alerted his employer, who arrived with his aides around 1:30 am. A heated confrontation ensued, during which one suspect pulled out a sword while another restrained Sahoo. Pradhan fled the scene.
As Sahoo fell to the ground, the men attacked him mercilessly. His right hand was severed, and his left hand was chopped off from above the wrist, causing excessive blood loss and leading to his death on the spot.
Police Action
Four persons have been arrested, while police are on the lookout for two more suspects. Senior officials, including IGP (central range) Satyajit Naik and Nayagarh SP S Susree, visited the crime scene. Naik stated, "Multiple teams have been formed to arrest those responsible. Forensic evidence has been collected, and perpetrators will not be spared."
Victim's Background
Investigators revealed that Sahoo used to target trucks transporting illegally mined laterite stones and extort money from them. SP Susree said, "Though no formal case has been registered against him, our inquiry suggests he regularly extorted money and threatened to inform police if miners and truck drivers refused to pay."
Public Outrage
The brutal killing sparked outrage among locals, who staged a two-hour road blockade in Odagaon, demanding strict action. Residents alleged that unchecked illegal stone mining in the region has fueled repeated conflicts and criminal activities.
Police authorities assured coordinated efforts with district mines and revenue officials to curb the menace. Susree added, "We are working to tighten enforcement against illegal mining and transportation of stones with the help of mines officials."
