Manas Murder Case: Memory Chip Still Untraceable, Crime Branch Grilling Of Sarmistha Continues

The controversial memory chip which is said to be the key reason behind the kidnapping and murder of Nayagarh cameraman Manas Swain still remained out of reach of the Crime Branch.

The CB team following extensive interrogation of main accused Sarmistha Rout has reportedly concluded that the memory chip was not with her. Sarmistha could not find out the whereabouts of the memory chip that Manas allegedly possessed before his death.

The Crime Branch had visited the home of the deceased in Ranapur of Nayagarh district on Monday searching for the chip. However, they had to return empty-handed.

The CB team asked some questions to Manas’ brother and other family members at his home, who identified the damaged slippers and earphone that Manas used. However, none of the family member had any knowledge of the memory chip.

Meanwhile, the CB again interrogated prime accused Sarmistha and her associate Jhuna making them sit in front of each other on the second day of extended three-day remand.

While the Police were able to elicit information about the way Manas was murdered and the subsequent events, the actual reason behind the murder is still unclear.

The mother of Nayagarh cameraman Manas Swain on Monday had demanded a CBI probe into her son's death alleging involvement of some influential people in the crime.

“The details of the data in the memory chip in my son’s camera should be examined on a priority basis. There are other influential persons involved in this crime. And I think, only a CBI probe can unearth the mystery behind the memory chip and put all the hidden criminals to justice,” said Jayanti Swain, mother of Manas.