βββββββBhubaneswar, July 1:The death of Tofan Nayak of Banapur in Odisha's Khurda district is neither a case of custodial death nor mob lynching, according to the preliminary findings of the ongoing investigation, said Dr. Satyajit Naik, Inspector General of Police (IGP), Central Range, Cuttack.
Addressing the media, Dr. Naik said the inquiry conducted so far and the evidence collected do not support allegations that Tofan Nayak died due to custodial torture or mob violence. He added that the investigation is continuing and the final conclusions will depend on forensic and scientific evidence.
According to Banapur Police, Tofan Nayak was rescued after the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS-112) received a call reporting that local residents had detained him on suspicion of theft.
Police said CCTV footage from Banapur Police Station shows Nayak alive, conscious, and moving freely inside the premises after being brought to the station. Officials further stated that he was offered a medical examination, but he allegedly did not cooperate.
After completing the required formalities, Nayak's parents reportedly signed a Zimmanama(bond) and took him home. Police said they did not make any allegations of assault against police personnel or any other individual at that time.
Officials also stated that when Nayak was later taken to the Community Health Centre (CHC) in Banapur, his family reportedly informed doctors that he had not been assaulted and suggested that his injuries may have resulted from a fall.
In connection with the incident, Banapur Police have registered a named FIR (Banapur PS Case No. 254/2026), and three accused persons have been apprehended.
Dr. Naik said the exact cause of Tofan Nayak's death will be established through the post-mortem examination and scientific investigation. He reiterated that the probe is ongoing and that further legal action will be taken based on forensic findings and the final outcome of the investigation.
