Jharsuguda, Odisha: Rengali Police cracked the brutal murder and robbery of a 76-year-old woman in just five days, arresting both the prime accused and the receiver of the stolen gold. Investigators relied on meticulous forensic work and advanced digital surveillance to track down those involved. Jharsuguda SP Gundala Reddy Raghavendra , in a detailed press briefing, outlined how his team pieced together crucial clues and swiftly unraveled the entire sequence of events, leading to the rapid breakthrough.
The crime took place on November 10. Lopamudra Sahu (76) was found dead inside her home at Attabira village under Rengali Police Station. She lived alone, and the attacker entered her house, assaulted her, and fled with cash and gold ornaments. The shocking murder alarmed the community. This pushed the police to launch an intensive investigation.
The investigation team quickly reached the spot, examined the scene, and collected critical forensic samples. They also traced digital footprints and checked surveillance feeds to identify the suspect. Using these leads, the police arrested Mahadev Patra (36) of Rengali on November 15. During interrogation, Patra revealed details about the disposal of the gold. The police then arrested Rajkumar Ray (43), owner of Sobhajit Jewellers in Belpahar, for receiving the stolen ornaments.
The police forwarded both accused to court under Rengali PS Case No. 258 dated 10.11.2025. This was registered under Sections 103(1)/332(a)/311 of the BNS. Officials said the arrests helped establish the motive. They also mentioned it brought the investigation to a decisive point.
The team recovered four gold chains, one pair of gold bangles, six pairs of gold earrings, and one gold ring, weighing about 83 grams in total. They also seized a Hero Glamour motorcycle (OD 23 H 7880) allegedly used by Patra during the crime. Along with this, they found three mobile phones carrying important digital evidence.
Police officials praised the strong coordination between the investigation units and highlighted how scientific methods and rapid action enabled them to detect the case quickly. Jharsuguda SP emphasized that the investigation team worked with precision and urgency to ensure justice. They added that the police would further strengthen surveillance, intensify community outreach, and enhance preventive measures across the region to curb similar crimes.
