Bhubaneswar, May 16: The Crime Branch has reportedly arrested another accused in connection with the murder of GRP constable Soumya Ranjan Swain at Balianta. The accused was allegedly involved in the mob violence linked to the incident. With the latest arrest, the total number of accused held in the case has reached 14. The accused is likely to be produced before the court today. However, the Crime Branch has not issued any official statement regarding the arrest so far.

Earlier, on May 14, the Crime Branch had arrested the prime accused, Chinu alias Ranjit Patra. During the investigation, the agency reportedly found involvement of several more persons in the case and efforts are underway to trace and arrest them.

The Crime Branch had earlier visited the police station and the crime spot to intensify the probe. Statements of several persons have been recorded and scientific evidence is also being examined as part of the investigation. Officials said further investigation is underway into the involvement of other suspects and some accused may be taken on remand if required. According to the Crime Branch DIG, evidence regarding the involvement of 12 more persons has been found.

Meanwhile, the Crime Branch team is continuing its investigation to unravel the circumstances surrounding Soumya Ranjan’s murder. Several persons connected to the case have been questioned, including members of Soumya’s family. Investigators sought details about Soumya’s movements on the day of the incident, when he left home, his mental condition at the time, who accompanied him, and how the family came to know about the incident.

Amid the ongoing probe, the DGP has issued strict instructions to the police department, stressing the importance of response, rescue and reaction mechanisms. So far, police have arrested 14 persons, including the prime accused, in connection with the Balianta murder case.