Bhubaneswar, Oct 28: In a significant development in the murder case of lawyer Pitabash Panda, police have seized a car allegedly linked to the prime accused Uma Bishoyi.

The vehicle, a white Ertiga bearing registration number OD02-DE-3479, was recovered from the Khandagiri area of Bhubaneswar.

The car is registered in the name of Bansi Bishoyi, Uma’s brother, who is currently lodged in Aska jail. Bansi was arrested earlier in connection with a bombing and shooting incident involving a man named Kalia Jena in Sunathar village under Sheragada police limits on July 25.

Investigators suspect that the seized car may have been used by Uma and his associate Kurupati Bhuyan during or after the murder of Pitabash Panda. The vehicle’s movements are now under scrutiny, with police examining CCTV footage from toll gates and other locations to trace its route and usage timeline.

Also read: 13 Arrested in Advocate Pitabash Panda Murder Case; Two Accused Still Absconding
 

Another suspect has been detained and is currently being interrogated for further leads. Police believe that Uma Bishoyi, who remains absconding, is the mastermind behind the murder. The seizure of the car is expected to provide crucial evidence in tracking his movements and establishing the sequence of events.

The murder of Pitabash Panda has sent shockwaves through the legal community, prompting calls for swift justice. Authorities continue to intensify their efforts to apprehend the fugitive and bring all involved to justice.