Cuttack police have arrested 65-year-old Ashok Samal in connection with the murder of Prakash Das, who was found bludgeoned to death along the Kathajodi riverbank in Khannagar locality.
According to DCP Khilari Rishikesh Dnyandeo, a special investigation team analyzed CCTV footage showing Samal approaching the riverbank from the Manimandir side and fleeing toward Cuttack Netaji Bus Terminal (CNBT) after the crime. Using technical analysis and local intelligence, police created a suspect profile and apprehended Samal.
Investigations revealed that Samal and Das were acquaintances who often consumed alcohol together. On January 10, the two met near CNBT and went to a railway underpass near Press Chhak. After Das left, Samal, who had been sleeping in an inebriated state, later discovered Rs 4,000 missing from his pocket and suspected Das of theft.
Samal tracked Das near Khannagar Ring Road, confronted him, and, unconvinced by his denials, allegedly bludgeoned him to death. Police have confirmed that further investigation is ongoing.
