Elderly man beaten to death over ‘witchcraft’ suspicion in Rayagada

In a bone-chilling incident, an elderly man was beaten to death by villagers who suspected him of practicing witchcraft at Titiguda village under Kashipur block in Rayagada district.

The deceased has been identified as Dai Majhi. His two sons managed to escape and saved their lives.

The incident occurred late Wednesday night while Dai along with his wife and two sons was asleep at his home. Meanwhile, a mob stormed into their house and assaulted the whole family.

Dai was severely beaten by the villagers leading to his death while his two sons managed to escape from the clutches of the villagers. The siblings, who sustained critical injuries, are currently under treatment at Tikiri Hospital.

On being informed, local police rushed to the village and brought the situation under control. Tension prevailed in the village following the heinous incident.

The body was seized and sent for autopsy. Meanwhile, a person was detained in this connection.

When contacted, SDPO Dibyajyoti Das said, “We have detained a person. During interrogation, he confessed to committing the crime. Further probe is on.”