Crime in Odisha / Butcher Shop Owner Shot Dead in Burla

Burla (Sambalpur), Aug 29: A shocking daylight murder has rocked Burla town in Sambalpur district. On Saturday around 11 AM, butcher shop owner MD Anees was gunned down near Kirba Chhak while riding his scooter.

Anees, aged 36, was a resident of Burla and ran a meat shop close to the busy junction.

According to police, Anees was shot at point-blank range by Raja, a 25-year-old youth from Jharsuguda who worked at his shop.

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Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots before Anees collapsed on the road. He sustained three bullet injuries — one to the head and two to the body — and died instantly at the scene.

Investigators recovered five empty cartridges from the spot, while a country-made pistol was seized from the accused. Raja was immediately detained by Burla police. The motive behind the attack remains unclear.

Authorities suspect personal enmity, though they have not ruled out other angles, including possible illicit relationships. “Only after thorough investigation will the exact reason be established,” said a police official.

The incident has sent shockwaves through the locality, with residents expressing fear over rising gun violence. Scientific teams have been deployed to examine the crime scene and determine the exact number of rounds fired. Police are also probing whether Raja has a prior criminal record.

Senior officers confirmed that the investigation will focus on both personal rivalry and other possible motives.