Dhenkanal, March 28: In a gruesome incident, a man was allegedly murdered by his relative brother, sister-in-law, and a minor nephew over suspected witchcraft in Krushnapur village under Bhuban police limits.

The deceased has been identified as Mantu Mohanty, a driver by profession. The main accused, Trilochan Mohanty, also a driver, reportedly lured him to his house on Tuesday evening.

Sources said Mantu reached Trilochan’s house following a phone call. Nearly two hours later, Trilochan, along with his wife and 12-year-old son, allegedly killed him and dragged the body around 100 metres away from the house.

The accused then attempted to burn the body using straw. However, alert villagers noticed the fire, rushed to the spot, doused the flames, and caught Trilochan. He was tied to a tree and later handed over to police.

On being informed, police reached the spot and detained Trilochan, his wife, and the minor boy. A scientific team also visited the scene to assist in the investigation.

During the probe, bloodstains were found in the courtyard of the accused’s house. Investigators also discovered a message written on the floor allegedly threatening to kill another relative on April 1.

The body has been sent for post-mortem, and further investigation is underway to ascertain the exact motive behind the murder.