Soro IIC (in green polo shirt) during the commotion Photograph: (OTV)
In a grave law and order situation, Sudipta Sahoo, the Officer-in-Charge (IIC) of Soro police station in Balasore district, was allegedly assaulted late last night while attempting to clear a road obstruction created by spectators watching the India-Pakistan cricket Asia Cup final match.
According to reports, the incident occurred near Soro Court Chowk, close to Bapu Nodal School, where multiple individuals blocking the road reportedly attacked the IIC and accompanying police officers, including Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Sameer Behera.
Road Obstruction Escalates Into Assault
Sources stated that around 11 pm, more than 15 people had gathered on the road to watch the match, obstructing the movement of vehicles in the process. Patrolling officers approached the crowd to remove the obstruction and questioned the spectators about the blockage.
The interaction escalated into a confrontation, resulting in one individual striking the IIC on the cheek. Another officer, ASI Sameer Behera, was pushed and forced to the ground. Several other police personnel were reportedly manhandled during the altercation.
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Police Action And Investigation
District authorities have initiated an investigation into the assault. Identification of the assailants and subsequent legal action is reportedly underway.
The IIC has not issued an official statement regarding the incident so far. However, some police officers have recorded their statements confirming that patrolling officers were on duty at the time, and the assault occurred while they were performing their official responsibilities, informed sources.
As of the last reports, no further developments, arrests, or official statements have been issued, but the case remains under active investigation by local police authorities.