Notorious Criminal Injured in Police Encounter in Sambalpur

Sambalpur: A dreaded criminal, wanted in over 25 cases across three districts of Odisha, sustained a bullet injury in an encounter with police near Rangiatikra village in Sambalpur district early Saturday morning.

The accused, identified as Sitaram Sarangi (34) of Sargdihi village under Gobindpur police limits in Sambalpur, reportedly opened fire on a police team at around 5:15 AM while attempting to evade arrest. Acting on specific intelligence inputs, the police had launched a raid to nab Sarangi in connection with a pending case.

According to police sources, Sarangi initiated the firing, forcing the police to retaliate in self-defense. During the exchange of fire, Sarangi was shot in the left leg below the knee. He was first taken to Kuchinda Sub-Divisional Hospital and later referred to VIMSAR, Burla, for advanced medical care.

During the operation, the police recovered a 7.65 mm country-made pistol, one live round, two fired cartridges used by the accused, and two fired cartridges fired by police personnel. Additionally, a motorcycle without a number plate and cash amounting to ₹1 lakh were seized from the spot.

Sarangi has a long history of criminal activities, including cases of dacoity, robbery, and attempt to murder registered in Sambalpur, Jharsuguda, and Sundargarh districts. He has been under police surveillance for some time.