Bhubaneswar, July 11: In a swift breakthrough, the Jatani Police arrested the prime accused, Maheswar Harichandan, in the Khudupur murder case within six hours of the incident. The operation was carried out under the leadership of Jatani IIC Stalin Biswal, said Bhubaneswar Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Jagmohan Meena.

Addressing a press conference on Saturday, DCP Meena credited the quick arrest to the prompt response and effective coordination of the Jatani Police team led by IIC Stalin Biswal.

The murder took place late Friday night at Khudupur Chowk under the jurisdiction of Jatani Police Station. The deceased was identified as Markanda Baliarsingh, alias Jaga, a resident of Khudupur village.

According to the investigation, Markanda was standing at the chowk when the accused, Maheswar Harichandan, allegedly attacked him with a sharp weapon, repeatedly stabbing him in the chest and abdomen before fleeing the scene.

The victim was initially taken to the Jatani Government Hospital and was later referred to AIIMS Bhubaneswar for advanced treatment. However, doctors declared him brought dead upon arrival.

DCP Meena said that both the accused and the deceased belonged to the same village and were relatives. Preliminary investigation suggests that the murder was the result of longstanding personal enmity.

Police have arrested Maheswar Harichandan and further investigation into the case is underway.