Surat police arrests man from Odisha’s Ganjam after 17 years for murder of sister’s lover in 2008

Surat police have arrested a man in connection with the 2008 murder of his sister’s lover, nearly 17 years after the crime. The accused, identified as Santosh Pradhan, is a resident of Bhimshakti Nagar under Barida police station in Ganjam district of Odisha.

According to police, Santosh had been absconding since the incident after allegedly killing the man who was in a romantic relationship with his sister.

Background of the Crime

The incident dates back to 2008, when Santosh and his sister were employed at a factory in Surat. During that period, Santosh’s sister developed a relationship with one of their colleagues, which reportedly angered him.

Police said Santosh conspired with a group of friends and murdered the young man before fleeing the city. During the investigation, Udhana police arrested three of his accomplices, while Santosh and two others managed to evade arrest and remained at large for several years.

Arrest After Years of Evasion

Surat Deputy Commissioner of Police Kanan Desai said tracking the accused was challenging as he frequently changed locations and worked as a labourer, making it difficult to trace his movements.

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“Through sustained efforts, including the use of human intelligence and technical surveillance, we were able to locate Santosh Pradhan in Ganjam district and arrest him,” the DCP said.

Case Nears Closure

With the arrest of the prime accused, police said the long-pending case is nearing closure. Santosh Pradhan is currently in custody, and further legal proceedings are underway.

The case highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in tracing fugitives who move across states and blend into the workforce, while also underscoring the role of modern investigative techniques in solving decades-old crimes.