Berhampur, Oct 25: Berhampur police have arrested 13 accused so far in the murder case of BJP leader and senior advocate Pitabash Panda. However, two key suspects—sharpshooter Kurupati Bhuyan and his associate Uma Bishoyi—remain absconding. Their photographs have now been obtained by Argus News, aiding the ongoing manhunt.

CCTV Footage Surfaces

New CCTV visuals have emerged showing Kurupati and another accused, Chintu, conducting a recce before the murder. In the footage, both are seen wearing white shirts and helmets, with Chintu riding a bike and Kurupati seated behind. Moments before the shooting, they are seen approaching from one side of the road and fleeing from the other after firing point-blank shots.

Criminal Backgrounds

Kurupati reportedly has four criminal cases registered against him across various police stations, while Uma Bishoyi is wanted in ten cases in Ganjam district, including murder, robbery, and violations under the Arms Act. Berhampur police have expanded their search beyond state borders to apprehend the fugitives.

Legal Petition Against Jail Transfer

 Meanwhile, Ashalata Das, wife of former Berhampur Mayor Shiv Shankar Das alias Pintu Das, has filed a petition opposing his transfer to Phulbani jail scheduled for October 27. She cited safety concerns, stating that her husband’s life would be at greater risk in Phulbani and requested that he be shifted to a jail closer to Berhampur, where multiple cases against him are ongoing.

Family Reaction and Legal Strategy

Pitabash Panda’s brother accused prime suspect Bikram Panda of staging sympathy theatrics. He expressed confidence in the legal process, stating that justice will prevail. He also revealed that BJD leader Bikram Panda is fighting the case with the support of 44 lawyers, and urged the public to await the police chargesheet rather than speculate.