Puri Tantrik Murder: 3 Arrested Over Dispute Involving Love Affair, Hidden Treasure

Puri: Police have arrested three men in connection with the alleged murder of a 61-year-old tantrik at his residence in Puri district, with investigators suspecting that a dispute over money linked to promises involving a love affair and hidden treasure led to the killing.

The arrested persons have been identified as Raj Kishore Sahoo (32), Satyabrata Mallick (19) and Suresh Sahoo (22), all residents of Khordha district.

According to police, the victim, Parshuram Pradhan, was allegedly attacked at his house in Mandarabasta village under Kanas police limits on the night of August 11. His family members were away in Bhubaneswar at the time.

The crime came to light two days later when Pradhan’s wife, Kanaklata Sethi (51), returned home and discovered his charred remains.

Police said Raj Kishore, who has been identified as the prime accused, had earlier approached Pradhan seeking his help in ending his younger brother’s relationship with a girl, which was reportedly opposed by their family.

Pradhan allegedly demanded Rs 19,000 for conducting a ritual to resolve the matter. When the ritual reportedly failed, he allegedly claimed that a 1.7-kg antique gold idol and hidden treasure were buried on his property, police said.

Raj Kishore allegedly paid another Rs 2 lakh after being assured that Pradhan would disclose the location of the purported treasure. However, when neither of the promises was fulfilled, Raj Kishore allegedly demanded a refund of the money.

Police suspect that the dispute eventually escalated into the fatal attack.

According to police, Raj Kishore went to Pradhan’s residence on August 11 along with Satyabrata and Suresh. He was allegedly carrying a knife, chilli powder and ropes.

When Pradhan allegedly refused to return the money, an argument broke out. Police said Raj Kishore stabbed him and gagged him to prevent him from raising an alarm. The three accused then allegedly tied him up and set him on fire.

Investigators also found that a gas cylinder had been placed at the scene, allegedly in an attempt to make the death appear accidental. However, police said there were no signs indicating that a cylinder explosion had occurred.

The investigation gained momentum after police analysed the victim’s call records and online banking transactions. The digital evidence allegedly revealed financial dealings between Pradhan and Raj Kishore, helping investigators trace the sequence of events and identify the suspects.

The three accused have since been arrested, and further investigation into the case is underway.