Bhubaneswar, June 21: Odisha Director General of Police (DGP), Y.B. Khurania has ordered that the Rayagada mob violence case be classified as a "Red Flag" case due to its sensitive nature and public significance.

The incident involved the brutal assault of two NGO fellows who were allegedly mistaken for child kidnappers.

The DGP has directed the Crime Against Women (CAW) wing to closely monitor the investigation and ensure that the case receives top priority.

So far, police have arrested 23 individuals in connection with the mob attack that occurred on June 16. Several others have been detained for questioning, while many accused persons remain absconding. To track and apprehend the remaining suspects, police have formed multiple special teams.

Authorities have registered three criminal cases related to the incident, and the Crime Branch is assisting the district police in the ongoing investigation.

Following the violence, fear and uncertainty have spread across the region. According to police, Intaliguda village has been largely deserted, with many residents leaving the area amid concerns over possible arrests and the tense atmosphere.

Rayagada Superintendent of Police (SP) Raj Prasad stated that strict legal action would be taken under the Information Technology (IT) Act against individuals who recorded and circulated videos of the assault on social media.

The cyber investigation is being conducted under the direct supervision of the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the South Eastern Range.

“The police cyber team is actively working to identify those responsible for making the videos viral. Strict action will be taken against anyone found involved,” the SP said, adding that he is personally overseeing the investigation.