TV
As investigators deepen their probe into the brutal assault on a 16-year-old girl in Bayabar village, Puri, forensic evidence, particularly kerosene bottles recovered from the victim’s house and the crime scene, has emerged as a potential lead.
Police are now examining whether the materials are linked, possibly offering insight into the origin and execution of the suspected attack.
Sources within the investigation confirmed that several bottles were found during a search of the girl’s home shortly after the incident.
Meanwhile, a kerosene bottle was recovered from the area near the Bhargavi River, where the girl was allegedly set ablaze. A scientific team is currently analysing the samples to determine whether the substances match, an outcome that could mark a significant turn in a case still shrouded in mystery.
Forensics, Special Squads Focus on Material Evidence
Two special police squads and a scientific team have been deployed to Balanga village, along with a dog squad that visited the site on Saturday.
Investigators are focusing on both the scene of the crime and the victim’s surroundings, sifting through burnt clothing and other remnants for traces of accelerants or fingerprints.
As of the last reports, police sources stated that whether these bottles were used in the crime or are unrelated domestic items is under detailed forensic analysis, adding that material evidence is being prioritised in the absence of clear eyewitness accounts.
No Visual Evidence Yet, But Probe Continues
Despite the mounting forensic effort, the identity and motive of the attackers remain unknown. Investigators are reviewing CCTV footage from the surrounding areas but have found no definitive clues so far.
No breakthrough has yet been made in tracing those allegedly involved, but sources said investigators are working on multiple angles, including whether the incident occurred exactly where the victim was found or elsewhere.
Victim Still Critical, AIIMS Delhi Airlift Expected
Meanwhile, the girl, who sustained 70 to 75 percent burns to her limbs, torso, and back, remains in critical condition at AIIMS Bhubaneswar. A 14-member team of doctors continues to monitor her in the Burn ICU.
With her condition deteriorating, preparations are underway to airlift her to AIIMS Delhi. According to her brother, coordination between the two institutions is complete, and the transfer may happen within hours.
