Pitabas Panda murder case: Ganjam BJD president Bikram Panda among 12 arrested

In a major development in the senior advocate and BJP leader Pitabas Panda murder case, the Berhampur police on Wednesday arrested former MLA and Ganjam BJD President Bikram Panda for his suspected involvement in the case.

According to sources, so far, 12 people have been arrested in connection with the case. They are former Berhampur Mayor Siba Shankar Das alias Pintu Das, corporator Malay Bisoi, student leader Madan Dalei, two sharpshooters, a local shooter and a person who kept an eye on the advocate.

The number of arrests in connection with the case is expected to rise further as the investigation progresses, sources added.

Police have reportedly questioned nearly 100 individuals and examined over 70 CCTV footage clips as part of an intensive investigation exploring multiple angles.

A police team, led by Berhampur SP Saravana Vivek M, reached Panda’s residence late last night and took him into custody for questioning. 

Later, on Wednesday, Panda was arrested and taken to Berhampur court.

Notably, Pitabas Panda was murdered on October 6 on Kumar Purnima night, which is considered one of the most celebrated festivals in Berhampur.

Also Read: Pitabas Panda murder case: Police pick up Ganjam BJD president Bikram Panda

While the motive behind the murder still remains unclear, political and business rivalry are suspected to be the main reasons behind the crime. 

Berhampur police is expected to reveal the exact cause behind the murder in a press meet later in the day.