Rayagada, Mar 7: In a tragic and shocking incident, a seven-year-old boy was allegedly kidnapped and brutally murdered in Chatikana, under Bissamcuttack block of Rayagada district. The victim has been identified as Rishi Gantayat, son of Purushottam Gantayat of Old Station Sahi, Chatikana.

According to reports, Rishi was abducted by an unidentified individual. Following the disappearance, the boy’s family reportedly received a message from an unknown phone number demanding money in exchange for his safe return. The message also warned the family against informing the police, threatening severe consequences if they did.

Family members and relatives conducted an exhaustive search throughout the day in nearby areas, but their efforts ended in tragedy when the child’s body was discovered late at night. Sources said the boy was allegedly murdered by having his throat slit, and his body was found packed inside a sack and discarded behind a house.

Upon receiving information, Bissamcuttack police arrived at the scene and launched an investigation. Authorities have detained a relative of the boy in connection with the crime and are questioning him as part of the ongoing probe. Investigators are working to ascertain the motive behind the gruesome act.

Bissamcuttack IIC Samarpita Swain stated that detailed information could not be immediately confirmed due to the late hour. She added that a scientific team would visit the site in the morning to carry out further investigations.

The horrific incident has left the community in shock, highlighting concerns over child safety and security in the district.