5 cops injured in attack by BJD supporters in Keonjhar

Keonjhar: At least five police personnel including a Sub-Inspector (SI) of Ghasipura police station sustained injuries following a scuffle with the locals of Padna village in Keonjhar district on Tuesday.

As per sources, the incident occurred when a team of police personnel along with Anandpur SDPO Maheswar Sethi had gone to Padna village to arrest one Pradeep Sahoo, reportedly a BJD supporter, in connection with a fight between the members of BJD and Sana Sena recently.

Protesting the arrest, supporters of Sahoo launched attack on the cops injuring five police personnel. Subsequently, the officials returned without arresting Sahoo.

Sustaining critical injuries in the attack, SI Gagan Nayak was shifted to the SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack.

“Two cases have been registered against the accused at Ghasipura police station. When the officers apprehended him at Padna Chhak to arrest him, his supporters who belong to the BJD attacked the cops,” informed the SDPO.

“A case has been registered and all the accused involved in attacking the cops will be nabbed soon,” Sethi added.

Meanwhile, a team has been formed to nab the persons involved in the mob attack. This apart, the Additional Superintendent of Police (SP) also visited the Ghasipura police station to enquire into the matter.