One arrested in Mohana firing case linked to love dispute; pistol seized

Police have arrested one person in connection with the firing incident triggered by a long-standing love dispute in Odisha’s Mohana area. The accused has been identified as Lazar Pradhan.

According to police, a team from Chandragiri police station apprehended Lazar Pradhan and seized a pistol along with empty cartridges from his possession. Preliminary investigation revealed that the accused, along with his brother Santosh Pradhan, had allegedly planned the attack. The firearm used in the incident was reportedly procured from another state for Rs15,000.

Following the arrest, police, assisted by a scientific team, visited the village and carried out a detailed spot investigation.

While Lazar Pradhan has been taken into custody, his brother Santosh Pradhan, identified as the main accused, is currently absconding. Police have launched a manhunt to trace and arrest him.

The incident took place on January 5 at Dhepasahi village under Chandragiri police station in Mohana block. Tension had been brewing in the village for a considerable period due to a dispute over a love relationship.

Sources said that during a village meeting convened to resolve the issue, Santosh Pradhan allegedly opened fire. The bullet struck Anil Kumar Karad, a relative of the woman involved in the dispute, injuring him in his right leg.

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The injured youth sustained serious injuries and is currently undergoing treatment at MKCG Medical College and Hospital in Berhampur.

Police have registered a case in connection with the incident, and further investigation is underway.