Berhampur Police Nab Bihar-Based Sharpshooter in Pitabas Panda Murder Case
Berhampur, Odisha — In a major breakthrough nearly ten days after the shocking murder of senior advocate and BJP leader Pitabas Panda, Berhampur Police have arrested two suspects from Bihar, including a sharpshooter believed to have fired the fatal shot.
The arrests followed a multi-state operation involving coordinated surveillance across Bihar, Delhi, and Kolkata. One suspect allegedly executed the killing, while the other conducted reconnaissance ahead of the attack. Both were brought to Berhampur late Wednesday night for interrogation.
Police sources revealed that the investigation is now zeroing in on the mastermind. A local businessman and a close associate of Panda—both under repeated questioning—are being probed for their potential role in orchestrating the crime.
Panda was shot at point-blank range near his Kamapalli residence on October 6. The attackers fled immediately, and Panda was declared dead on arrival at the hospital. The targeted nature of the assault has led investigators to suspect a contract killing involving professional shooters from outside Odisha.
The murder has triggered widespread outrage across Odisha’s legal and political circles. Known for his decades-long legal career and pivotal role in BJP’s southern Odisha operations, Panda had no known personal enmity, leaving the motive unclear.
Family members have demanded swift justice and exemplary punishment for the real mastermind. Police have assured that the investigation will proceed with full transparency and urgency.
