Gajapati: Palpable tension prevailed in Kanteikoli village under Mohana block of the district after police stopped a sorcerer, who was called to ascertain the reason behind death of a person, to perform a puja on Saturday.
However, local residents opposed the sorcerer’s arrest and did not allow police vehicle to move out of the village.
Till the last report came in villagers took away the sorcerer, identified as Premananda Parichha of Punamari village from police custody.
According to reports, the villagers had sought Parichha's help to ascertain the exact reason behind the death of one Ranjan Mallick whom they suspected died because of some 'witchcraft' on October 30.
On getting information about the puja, police rushed to the spot and tried to take Parricha into custody. But this was opposed by the villagers.
Meanwhile, police have cordoned off the area to re-arrest the sorcerer.
Further details in connection with the incident are awaited.