Leopard poaching in Nayagarh

Bhubaneswar Police Nab Prime Accused in Dhauli Gang-Rape Case

The Commissionerate Police have achieved a major breakthrough in the Dhauli Daya River gang-rape case with the arrest of the prime accused, Satyaprakash Hati, infamously known as “Joker Happy.”

Hati was apprehended in the Ganjam region after days of intensive tracking and surveillance.

His arrest comes as a relief to the public following widespread outrage over the crime that took place near the Daya River at Dhauli.

Police confirmed that while Hati is now in custody, two other accused remain at large. Search operations have been intensified to bring them to justice at the earliest.

Authorities revealed that Hati is a habitual offender, with more than 20 criminal cases registered against him across Badagada and Dhauli police stations.

His criminal record dates back to 2018, when he was first arrested for vehicle theft. In 2022, he was again taken into custody for allegedly attacking a man with a blade in Sishupalgarh.

Officials assured that the investigation is being conducted with utmost seriousness and sensitivity, especially given the gravity of the crime.

The case has reignited concerns over public safety and crimes against minors, prompting calls for stricter monitoring of repeat offenders and faster judicial processes.

Police have appealed to the public to cooperate with the investigation and avoid circulating unverified information.