Police Crack Multi-State Operation to Nab Suspects

In a major breakthrough, Odisha Police have arrested Uma Bisoyi, the prime accused in the sensational murder case of noted lawyer Pitabasa Panda. Along with her, two other suspects — including the alleged gunman — have been apprehended. The arrest, which involved coordination across multiple districts and states, has helped authorities uncover what they describe as a “dark and dangerous plot” born out of personal vengeance.

A Calculated and Cold-Blooded Crime

According to investigators, Bisoyi meticulously masterminded Panda’s murder after harbouring personal grievances against him. Initial attempts to execute the plan reportedly failed when a hired assassin from Bihar could not carry out the task. Determined to settle scores, Bisoyi then brought in two snipers from Banthapalli, one of whom — identified as Kurupati Bhuyan — allegedly fired the fatal bullet that killed Panda in a bold daylight attack on the coastal city.

Special Teams Tracked Bisoyi Across States

Police sources revealed that multiple teams had been trailing Bisoyi for weeks, following clues that spanned both Odisha and neighbouring states. Acting on specific intelligence, two dedicated combing teams worked in close coordination to track down and arrest Bisoyi, Bhuyan, and another unidentified associate. All three were taken into custody during a joint interstate operation.

A Murder That Shocked Odisha’s Legal Fraternity

The murder of advocate Pitabasa Panda, a respected and influential figure in the legal community, had sent shockwaves through Brahmapur and across Odisha. Panda was widely admired for his fearless legal battles and dedication to justice. His sudden killing — carried out with military-like precision — has been described by senior officials as a “premeditated conspiracy”, not a random act of violence.

“Such a crime could not have happened by chance. It was the outcome of a well-planned conspiracy,” said a senior police officer.

Legal Fallout and Security Concerns

Following the arrests, police have invoked strict sections related to murder and criminal conspiracy under the Indian Penal Code. Investigators are also pursuing leads to identify and apprehend other possible accomplices involved in the plot.

Meanwhile, the shocking murder has led to an outcry among lawyers’ associations, who have demanded heightened security for members of the legal fraternity.

Justice and Closure Still Awaited

As the investigation continues, Brahmapur remains gripped by grief and unease. The city’s residents — and particularly the legal community — are now looking to the justice system to ensure that the betrayal and bloodshed that claimed Pitabasa Panda’s life do not go unpunished.

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The brazen daylight killing of lawyer Pitabasa Panda outside the Brahmapur court has sent shockwaves across Ganjam district, prompting police to probe possible links to Bihar. Eleven days after the October 5 ambush, authorities continue to face challenges as the accused remain elusive, raising concerns about rising crime in the region.

Police Investigate Bihar Connection

Berhampur SP Saravana Vivek revealed that police have recovered a country-made pistol and obtained crucial leads in the case. “We will arrest all the suspects soon,” he said, fueling speculation that the gun used may have originated from Bihar.

In a coordinated effort, Brahmapur police have brought two men from Bihar for questioning, while another key suspect, a liquor trader, is under intense interrogation. Authorities are actively tracing cross-border leads to uncover the full plot.

Rivalries and Political Tensions Intensify

The murder follows longstanding tensions, as Panda was a noted informant against land mafias, making him a target within Berhampur’s criminal underbelly. Meanwhile, political violence has flared, with BJP leader Niranjan Jena (alias Kaliya Jena) shot dead by BJD Block Youth Chief Santosh Pattnaik on Thursday in Dhannuntara village.

Pattnaik’s arrest triggered protests, with hundreds of BJD workers storming the police station, accusing authorities of political vendetta and escalating party tensions between BJD and BJP in the district.

Law Enforcement Steps Up Amid Rising Crime

SP Vivek acknowledged the challenges posed by “new-age crimes” in Ganjam, emphasizing that patrolling and intelligence operations have been intensified to curb escalating violence. Courtroom vendettas and party turf wars continue to dominate the district’s law-and-order landscape.

Diwali Approaches Amidst Fear and Uncertainty

As Diwali draws near, residents are praying for peace while authorities strive to bring perpetrators to justice. With cross-border elements suspected and political rivalries intertwined, the coming weeks will test the district administration’s ability to restore law and order

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