Crime News / Father-Son Duo Targeted People Walking Alone, Police Nab Mastermind in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar, Aug 6: Cracking down on a robbery network, police arrested the alleged mastermind behind a father-son robbery duo accused of targeting people travelling alone in Bhubaneswar's Maitri Vihar area.

The arrested accused was identified as Parama Rao, while his son, P Prakash Rao, remains absconding.

According to a source, the duo targeted lone pedestrians near Jagabalia Club.

Police said Parama Rao would threaten victims with brass knuckles before robbing them of cash and valuables. Police further alleged that victims attempting to resist or flee were assaulted with the weapon, leaving some injured.

Police seized a gold chain weighing about 11 grams and Rs 12,500 in cash, suspected to be stolen property, from Parama Rao's possession.

Officials said Parama Rao is a habitual offender with 20 criminal cases registered against him at various police stations in Bhubaneswar. The cases include allegations of murder, attempt to murder, rape, robbery, housebreaking and offences under the Arms Act.

Police said efforts are underway to trace and arrest the absconding co-accused.

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Police Bust AC Compressor Theft Gang
In a separate case, cops from Infocity Police Station arrested the alleged mastermind of an air-conditioner compressor theft racket along with his associates for stealing AC compressors and copper pipes from residential areas.

The main accused, identified as Biki Swain, was apprehended while allegedly trying to find buyers for stolen property. Police seized one Voltas AC compressor and copper pipes from his possession.

During interrogation, Biki allegedly confessed to committing the thefts with the help of Rana Ray and a juvenile, police said.

Based on his statement, police arrested Rana Ray and detained the juvenile. Additional stolen copper pipes were also recovered during the operation.

According to the source, the accused had allegedly stolen AC compressors and copper pipes from houses in Shikharchandi, Prashanti Vihar and nearby KIIT areas on multiple occasions.

All arrested accused have been produced before a court on Thursday, while further investigation is underway.