Berhampur, May 25: A youth accused of attacking another man with a sharp weapon in Odisha’s Berhampur was shot during a police encounter within hours of a video of the assault going viral on social media, a source said Monday.

According to the source, the incident took place in Ambika Nagar locality in Berhampur, where a youth identified as Mangala Behera was allegedly attacked by two youths identified as Jaga and Balia with sharp weapons. A video of the assault reportedly spread rapidly online on Sunday, triggering outrage and prompting swift police action.

Accused Allegedly Tried To Hurl Bomb While Escaping
According to the police, the accused persons fled immediately after the attack.

Acting on leads, police launched a pursuit operation and later intercepted the accused Jaga Sahu alias Jagannath in Bauri Sukunda area of Berhampur during an attempted escape on early hours of Monday.

Officials alleged that Jaga tried to hurl a bomb at the police team during the chase, following which the police opened fire in retaliation. Subsequently, Jaga sustained bullet injuries in both legs and was admitted to Maharaja Krushna Chandra Gajapati Medical College and Hospital in a critical condition for treatment.

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Investigation Underway
Police said the prompt operation helped prevent further escalation of the situation.

Authorities urged people not to circulate unverified information related to the incident on social media.