Bhadrak kidnapping case: Key accused arrested, victim rescued from Mayurbhanj

In a major breakthrough, police have arrested the prime accused in a sensational kidnapping case linked to coal mafia activities in Bhadrak district. The victim, Pratap Behera of Marapur village under Sabarang police limits, was allegedly abducted in the early hours of June 5 by a group of men reportedly associated with the coal mafia.

The incident came to light after Behera’s wife brought the matter to the notice of Satyajit Naik, DIG, Eastern Range, Balasore. 

As per initial reports, Behera received threatening calls before the incident. Later, he was taken away in multiple vehicles including a Bolero, Hyundai car, Dzire, and two motorcycles.

Acting swiftly, a team led by DIG Naik traced and rescued the injured victim from Mayurbhanj district. He was first admitted to Bhadrak District Headquarters Hospital and later shifted to Cuttack for advanced medical care. 

Behera, who bore multiple injuries, has identified several accused, including known coal mafia members.

The main accused, Bhagaban Das alias Baya, was arrested from Jajpur, and a case has been registered against him.
Further investigation into the matter is on, senior police officials said on Sunday.