Is Police shielding coal mafia in Bhadrak? Questions raised as man allegedly thrashed after being kidnapped

A serious allegation has emerged from the Bhadrak district, where local police have been accused of shielding a coal mafia group allegedly involved in the kidnapping and assault of a young man. The incident took place in the Ichhapur area under Sabrang police station jurisdiction.

According to reports, a group of coal mafia members allegedly abducted and brutally assaulted a local youth named Pratap Behera. Following the incident, Pratap's wife, Kanaklata Behera, lodged a formal complaint at the Sabrang Police Station, seeking immediate action against the culprits.

However, Kanaklata alleged that despite her complaint, the police failed to initiate any action, raising serious questions about the impartiality and role of the local police. The delay in action further fueled suspicions that the coal mafia enjoys protection from certain police personnel.

The matter only moved forward after the intervention of the DIG of Balasore Range, who directed the local police to register a case and begin an investigation. Following his instructions, the police registered a formal FIR and launched an inquiry into the incident.

Pradip Behera, the victim, said, “Several goons came to my house and threatened me. So I went to the police seeking help. Later, seven to eight people assaulted me after kidnapping me.”

Kanaklata Behera, wife of the victim, alleged, “I had lodged a complaint alleging that my husband has been kidnapped. Some police staff had come and taken statements. Where will we go if those meant to protect are doing such activities?”

Meanwhile, the Additional SP of Balasore ensured that the injured Pratap Behera was admitted to the Bhadrak District Headquarters Hospital for treatment. Additionally, he has been provided with police protection for his safety.

Balasore Additional SP Alok Ranjan Ray said, “The complainant Kanaklata and her husband were not examined. They have informed that her husband was beaten up by 14 persons and was tortured. He has injury marks. There are some lapses on the part of IIC of the Sabrang police station. The case will be handed over to the crime branch, and a detailed investigation will be conducted. All the accused will be held.”

As per official sources, 14 accused individuals are alleged to be involved in the case. The authorities have assured that strict action will be taken against all those involved. The Additional SP of Bhadrak confirmed that an investigation is currently underway and the Sabrang police have officially registered the case.

Bhadrak Additional SP, Abhisekh Behera, said, “A case has been registered and a sub-inspector has been entrusted with the probe. The abducted person has been rescued, and under what circumstances he was kidnapped will be probed.”