Pitabas Panda murder case: Nearly 50 persons questioned, says Berhampur SP

In a significant development in the murder case of senior lawyer Pitabas Panda, over 60 CCTV footages were under detailed review, and the probe team has found key leads from the footages, said Berhampur SP Saravana Vivek M in a presser on Friday.

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Police have interrogated nearly 50 individuals, including the eyewitnesses and professional associates, as the investigation picks up pace.

According to Berhampur SP, five to six persons remain under close suspicion and are being actively questioned. The extensive round of interrogations includes witnesses present at or near the crime scene as well as Panda’s colleagues, who may provide insight into his routine and any potential threats.

Investigators have gleaned crucial clues from CCTV footage, particularly related to Pitabas Panda's movements on the day of the murder. These video recordings have provided strong leads that could help identify the perpetrators and their possible motives.

Police have sent the recovered bullet for ballistic examination to forensic experts, who are expected to shed more light on the type of weapon used and possibly trace its origin.

Meanwhile, officials say the post-mortem report is expected soon and could add key details to the timeline and nature of the attack.

“We suspected some people as to why they had come to the spot at that time (occurrence of the crime), their movement and what they were doing near the scene. Hence, we are confidentially questioning them to gather more information,” Berhampur SP stated.

“We have already questioned around 50 persons, including eyewitnesses, and those who were present near the spot (on the intervening night), his (Pitabas Panda’s) associates and acquaintances. A detailed probe is underway,” the SP expressed to mediapersons.