Berhampur, May 21: Odisha Police on Thursday arrested two more accused in connection with the brutal assault on a youth at Giri Road in Berhampur, taking the total number of arrests in the case to four.

The arrested accused were identified as Ashish Sahu and Dinesh Kumar Panda.

According to police, Ashish, along with his brother Mufates Sahu alias Mukesh, had allegedly dragged Umesh Rath onto the road and assaulted him with sticks during the attack on the night of May 18.

Police said two scooters, two motorcycles, a stick and a mobile phone were seized from the accused persons.

A source said Ashish surrendered at the Town Police Station on Thursday afternoon. Following their arrest, both accused were produced before a local court.

Police Encounter Mukesh
The development came a day after police reportedly injured Mukesh in an encounter near Tamana Ghati late Wednesday night following an exchange of fire. Mukesh, described by police as a history-sheeter, is undergoing treatment at MKCG Medical College and Hospital.

According to police, Mukesh was wanted in connection with the May 18 assault on Umesh Rath at Giri Road. He allegedly attempted to flee when intercepted by police during a late-night operation. During the process, the accused allegedly attempted to snatch the firearm of an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI).

In response, police reportedly opened fire in self-defence. During the incident, the accused sustained bullet injuries to his hand and knee.

Police records show Mukesh has more than nine criminal cases registered against him, including attempted murder, extortion, robbery and illegal arms trade under different police station limits, including Baidyanathpur, Gopalpur and Gosani Nuagaon.

Earlier, police had arrested Raj Malhotra and Lingaraj Samal in connection with the case.

Also Read: Youth, Woman Assaulted By Group Of Miscreants On Busy Berhampur Road

What Happened On May 18?
The assault had triggered tension in Berhampur after Umesh Rath and a woman accompanying him were allegedly attacked in the middle of a busy road around 9 pm on May 18 near Giri Road under Town Police Station limits. The victims were reportedly standing near a momos stall when the attackers assaulted them with sticks and other weapons.

Umesh sustained multiple injuries, including a fractured leg, and was admitted to hospital for treatment.

Police sources said Umesh also has previous criminal cases registered against him and was currently out on bail.