Sheragada (Ganjam), Oct 15: In a major breakthrough in the July 25 shooting incident involving Niranjan Jena, father of the Dhanantara Panchayat Sarpanch, police have arrested Pintu Patnaik, the Youth BJD President of Sheragada block.

The arrest marks a significant development in the ongoing investigation that has already seen over 11 individuals taken into custody.

The incident occurred when unidentified miscreants opened fire on Niranjan Jena, also known as Kalia, and fled the scene. The attack sent shockwaves through the local community and prompted a swift response from law enforcement. Since then, Sheragada police have been actively pursuing leads and making arrests to bring the perpetrators to justice.

Pintu Pattnaik’s arrest has sparked political tension in the region, with BJD workers staging a protest outside the local police station. They claim the arrest is politically motivated and are demanding his immediate release. The demonstration has drawn attention from party leaders and local residents alike, raising concerns about law and order and political interference.

Police officials, however, maintain that the arrest was based on credible evidence and part of a larger effort to ensure justice for the victim and his family.

The investigation continues as police work to uncover the full extent of the conspiracy behind the attack.