Two Main Accused In Sudhir Patra Kidnap-Murder Case Injured In Police Encounter

Bhubaneswar: Berhampur Police on Monday night foiled an alleged escape attempt by two prime accused in the sensational kidnapping and murder case of businessman Sudhir Patra, injuring them during an encounter.

The injured accused were identified as Ranjan Mallick (27) of Nuagaon under Badagada police limits and Saroj Panda (35), alias Vicky, originally linked to Modi Mahala on AK Road in Gujarat’s Surat district.

Berhampur SP Saravana Vivek M said both accused had played a key role in the abduction and murder of Sudhir Patra and had been absconding since the incident.

According to police, Sudhir Patra was kidnapped on April 15 and ransom was demanded from his family. Investigators said the accused later murdered him in the Rampada forest area under Buguda. Police alleged that Saroj Panda had fired at Sudhir, while Ranjan Mallick had allegedly threatened the victim’s family through phone calls.

A special police team had arrested four accused from Rajasthan, including Saroj Panda, Ranjan Mallick, Sumit Singh Sunil Rajput and Mukesh Sahu. While the accused were being brought to Berhampur, Saroj and Ranjan allegedly attacked the police team near Ankuspur and attempted to flee.

During the exchange of fire, police shot both accused in their legs. Ranjan Mallick sustained bullet injuries to his right leg, while Saroj Panda was shot in his left leg.

Both injured accused were admitted to MKCG Medical College and Hospital for treatment.