Screen grab from the CCTV footage
Tension gripped Bharatpur in Bhubaneswar after unidentified miscreants carrying sharp weapons were caught on CCTV late last night.
Sources reported that the footage showed armed miscreants prowling in residential lanes, attempting to barge into houses, and threatening to attack anyone who tried to resist. The brazen movement of the gang has spread fear among locals, especially with the festive season just beginning.
A major incident occurred at a tent house warehouse located directly behind Bharatpur police station in Bhubaneswar. Eyewitnesses said the looters, armed with swords and knives, tried to enter the premises around midnight. Locals who noticed their suspicious activity immediately called the police.
By the time the PCR van arrived, the miscreants had already fled. Residents have since questioned how such an incident could unfold so close to a police station, raising concerns about security arrangements.
A case has been registered at Bharatpur police station based on the complaint. Officials said the CCTV footage will be examined to identify the accused, and that night patrolling has been stepped up in the area.
Residents, however, remain anxious, pointing out that organised gangs are now operating openly even in well-guarded neighbourhoods.
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The Bharatpur case follows another loot incident in Kharvela Nagar last week during Ganesh Puja celebrations.
A couple had parked their car near the pandal and returned to find its window smashed, with a laptop, jewellery, and cash missing. Police believe that different gangs may be taking advantage of festive crowds and relaxed vigilance.