Kalimela: A youth, missing since January 1, was found dead today in a forest near MV-126 under Motu police limits in Malkangiri district.

The deceased was identified as Baja Michhu, the son of Kana Michhu from Tagurukota village.

After Baja did not return home for quite long hours, his family searched for him at all probable locations but to no avail. The family lodged an FIR with Motu police about it.

A source said that the youth was at his house on New Year’s Day when he was asked by three of his friends to come with them and was later taken to the forest on the intervening day on the pretext of feasting. Believing their words, Baja went along with them. The accused trio allegedly killed the youth and threw his beheaded body in the forest.

Acting on the FIR, Motu police initiated a probe and detained a friend of Baja in this connection. During a detailed probe, it was ascertained that two others were also involved in the crime.

The investigation is still underway, Kalimela SDPO expressed.