Police have arrested five individuals, including a woman accused of orchestrating the murder of her husband, in a shocking case that has emerged from Odisha’s Jajpur district. The victim, Soumya Sagar Samal, was shot dead on April 6 while returning home, with investigators alleging that the crime was planned following disputes over the wife’s extra-marital relationships. Authorities described the case as a “sensational murder” that required a multi-team investigation due to its complexity and sensitive nature.
According to police officials, the accused include Samal’s wife Subhasree Behera, also known as Sima, along with her alleged associates Tapas Kumar Khilar and Priti Prava Priyadarsini Khilar. Two others, Suraj Singh and Ankit Thakur, have been identified as suppliers of the firearm used in the killing. Yashpratap Shrimal confirmed the arrests, stating that coordinated efforts led to the capture of the suspects from different locations, including hideouts in Rourkela.
The incident occurred on the night of April 6 when Samal was returning to his rented residence after closing his chicken shop in Jajpur town. A bike-borne assailant opened fire on him, leaving him critically injured. He was initially taken to the district headquarters hospital and later shifted to a medical facility in Cuttack, where he succumbed to his injuries during treatment.
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Investigations revealed that Subhasree had been in a relationship with Priti even before her marriage to Samal around 18 months ago. During visits to Priti’s residence, she reportedly developed a relationship with Tapas as well. Police allege that she continued these relationships after marriage, leading to frequent disputes with her husband, who strongly opposed her actions and reportedly confronted the individuals involved.
Officials said tensions escalated after Samal discovered the alleged relationships and objected to them, even threatening to take action. A confrontation between Samal and Tapas in early March is believed to have triggered the murder plot. Investigators claim that Tapas subsequently arranged for a country-made pistol and underwent training with the help of the other accused, with financial support allegedly provided by Priti.
On the day of the incident, police say the accused acted on information about Samal’s movements, which was allegedly shared by Subhasree and Priti. Tapas then carried out the shooting as part of a premeditated plan. Authorities have stated that further investigation is underway to gather additional evidence and ensure that all aspects of the case are thoroughly examined before proceeding with legal action.
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