Fugitive Murder Accused Arrested in Bolangir After Five Years
Police in Bolangir district have finally arrested a fugitive murder accused who evaded capture for five years. Anil Meher (29), from Sahajpani village under Lathor police limits, was wanted in connection with the killing of his sister-in-law, Surjyakanti Meher (38), on August 4, 2021.
According to reports, Anil attacked her with a sharp knife during a family dispute and fled immediately after the assault. Surjyakanti was rushed to the Patnagarh Community Health Centre, where doctors declared her dead.
Based on a complaint filed by Anil’s elder brother, Kshiradhar Meher, the police registered Case No. 105/2021 at Lathor police station.
However, Anil managed to escape to Bengaluru, where he married and took up employment in a private company.
With the accused absconding for years, the Patnagarh Court issued a warrant against him. Acting on this directive, current Lathor IIC Ramakant Sahu reopened the investigation.
Following a tip-off, Sahu led a four-member police team to Bengaluru, where Anil was successfully apprehended. He was brought back to Bolangir and produced before the Patnagarh Court on Friday.
The arrest marks the end of a prolonged manhunt and underscores the persistence of Odisha Police in pursuing justice.
