Transgender Murder Accused Injured in Police Encounter Near Bhubaneswar, Arrested

Bhubaneswar: In a dramatic late-night operation, the prime accused in the murder of a transgender person near Uttara was injured in a police encounter and arrested after he allegedly opened fire on a police team attempting to apprehend him.

The case has been registered at Pipili Police Station as Case No. 73/26 dated February 2, 2026, under Sections 103(1) and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), in connection with the brutal killing that had triggered public outrage in the area.

Police identified the accused as Krushna Kandi, a history-sheeter and known anti-social element with prior involvement in multiple snatching cases. According to official sources, Kandi was tracked down through technical intelligence inputs.

Acting on credible information about his presence near Tarakaju, a special police team launched a swift operation to nab him. However, as the team moved in to arrest him, Kandi allegedly opened fire at the police personnel in an attempt to escape.

In response, the police resorted to controlled firing in self-defense. Kandi sustained a bullet injury to his leg during the exchange and was overpowered at the spot.

He was immediately taken into custody and shifted to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack, where he is currently undergoing treatment under police guard.

Police officials said the accused’s criminal background and violent resistance underscored the gravity of the situation. The investigation into the murder case is ongoing, and further details are expected as interrogation progresses.

The incident has once again spotlighted concerns over rising crimes against members of the transgender community and the growing menace of repeat offenders.