Pitabas Panda murder: First photo of sharpshooter surfaces, manhunt intensifies

The investigation into the sensational murder of advocate and BJP leader Pitabas Panda has taken a new turn as the first photograph of the alleged sharpshooter, Kurupati Bhuiyan, has surfaced.

Bhuiyan is accused of firing the fatal shots that killed the prominent Berhampur-based lawyer on October 6.

So far, the Berhampur police have arrested 13 individuals, including BJD leader Bikram Panda, in connection with the case. However, the main accused, Kurupati Bhuiyan, and another key suspect, Uma Bishoyi, who allegedly played a crucial role in striking a deal with the killers, are still on the run.

It is yet to be ascertained if they are still in India or have fled to another country. Police sources revealed that extensive efforts are underway to trace the absconding duo.

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Questions are now being raised about whether they are hiding within the state or have fled outside Odisha. Investigators are also probing possible political or criminal networks that may be providing them protection and shelter.

The gruesome murder of advocate Pitabas Panda had sent shockwaves across Berhampur and beyond, sparking widespread outrage among the legal fraternity and the public. As the police intensify their manhunt, the pressure mounts to apprehend the prime shooter and his associates to bring justice to the slain lawyer’s family.