Ganjam, Apr 27: The investigation into the sensational murder of plot dealer Sudhir Patra has entered a crucial phase, with police conducting intensive crime scene recreations and evidence searches over the past three days.

Five accused are currently under interrogation, as authorities attempt to piece together the sequence of events leading to the killing.

On Sunday, police carried out detailed crime scene recreation at the abduction site, the murder location in Ramapada forest, and the spot where Patra’s body was dumped. Following this, investigators began searching the nearby Baghua Dam, where the accused allegedly disposed of two firearms used during the crime.

Also read: Family Feud, Witchcraft Suspicion BehindBrutal Murder of Berhampur Realtor Sudhir Patra: Police

Firefighters and police teams have been deployed to assist in retrieving the weapons from depths of nearly 60 feet, using magnets and specialized equipment. One firearm has already been seized earlier, while efforts continue to recover the remaining two.

According to police sources, during Patra’s abduction, the accused threatened him by firing blank rounds and pressing a gun to his head. The statement of sharp shooter Surya Pratap Singh, who reportedly came from Surat, has provided crucial leads, prompting the dam search operation.

Investigators have also recovered an empty cartridge and other significant evidence during the reconstruction.

Meanwhile, CCTV footage has surfaced showing the kidnappers trailing Patra on the day of the abduction. The vehicle, now seized by police, was used to chase him before ramming his bike and forcibly abducting him. This footage is expected to strengthen the case against the accused.

Berhampur Police cracked the case, exposing a chilling mix of family conspiracy, property dispute, and suspicion of witchcraft behind the crime.

The police believe the recovery of the firearms will be a turning point in the investigation, providing concrete evidence to link the accused directly to the crime.