On Tuesday, Cuttack Commissionerate Police arrested 28-year-old Jamuna Rout in connection with the murder of 75-year-old Basanti Behera during a robbery at her residence in Ananda Bazar, under Baranga police limits, Cuttack district.
Basanti, who lived alone, was discovered by her son Bibhuti Bhusan Behera early on May 21, lying in a pool of blood. The murder reportedly occurred the previous night during a break-in.
Police registered a case the same day and promptly initiated investigations. Senior officials and forensic experts, along with a dog squad, visited the scene, recovering a blood-stained spade believed to be the murder weapon.
The Cyber Cell of Cuttack Urban Police utilized AI-driven CCTV analysis and ground verification to track and apprehend Jamuna Rout on May 27. Surveillance footage from Bhubaneswar Smart City cameras and local CCTV systems was key in identifying the accused.
During interrogation, Rout confessed to targeting the victim’s house, having observed her routine. He admitted to breaking in at night and attacking Basanti with a sharp weapon when confronted.
Police recovered stolen household items, a mobile phone belonging to the deceased, the bicycle used during the crime, and the clothes worn by Rout at the time.
Cuttack DCP Khilari Rishikesh Dnyandeo confirmed the accused has a prior record involving property crimes and jail time. Investigations are ongoing.
Jamuna Rout was forwarded to court on Tuesday, with further inquiry underway.
