Odisha BJP leader’s murder: Central Range IG to monitor investigation

Bhubaneswar: Inspector General of Police (Central Range), Soumendra Priyadarshi will monitor the investigation into the murder of BJP leader Manguli Jena, informed Odisha DGP in-charge BK Sharma today.

“As many as four police teams have been formed for the probe. A Crime Branch team and a Forensic team are assisting them. IG Soumendra Priyadarshi is monitoring the investigation. Our prime aim is to identify and arrest the accused,” said Sharma.

On being asked by reporters about the possible reason behind the killing, the top cop said that the investigation is in preliminary stage and all angles are being examined. Action will be taken against anyone found guilty, he added.

On the other hand, Khordha SP Amulya Kumar Das said raids are being conducted at various places to apprehend the accused. There is no proof of involvement of any political parties so far, he said.

IG Priyadarshi said police protection will be given to BJP’s Khurda MLA candidate. Protection will also be provided to those candidates seeking the same, he said.

Notably, Manguli Jena, BJP’s Khordha Zone-9 Mandal President, was allegedly shot dead by unidentified miscreants in Khordha town late last night.

Two bike-borne miscreants opened fire two rounds of bullets at Jena around 12 AM while he was having a discussion with party’s Khurda MLA candidate Kalu Khandayatray at the nominee’s house along with some BJP workers.

Jena sustained critical bullet injuries and was admitted to the Khordha district headquarters hospital, where he was declared dead by doctors.