Berhampur, Mar 18: A youth was brutally attacked in broad daylight on a busy road in Berhampur on Tuesday evening, raising alarm over a surge in gang-related violence in the city.

The victim, identified as Dinesh Panda, was assaulted near Subarao Square by a group of assailants. According to reports, the attackers initially used their hands and later brandished a sharp weapon, reportedly a sword, during the attack. Multiple passersby witnessed the incident but did not intervene due to fear of the attackers.

Panda sustained serious injuries and has been admitted to a hospital for treatment. Speaking about the assault, he said, “They first hit me with their hands and then pulled out a knife, which I managed to break. Later, they brought out a sword. When I resisted, they slammed my head against a gate. I have no prior enmity with them.”

Berhampur Superintendent of Police Saravana Vivek M confirmed that investigations are ongoing. FIRs have been registered against both the accused and the victim, and police are working to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.

The attack is part of a growing trend of violent incidents in the city, including assaults on lawyers, youths, and repeated gang clashes, prompting authorities to step up vigilance.