Who Is the 27-Year-Old Man Arrested in Odisha's Murder Case?
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Synopsis
A shocking murder case emerges from Odisha as a 27-year-old man from Karnataka is arrested for allegedly killing his lover and assaulting her young daughter. This chilling incident, which occurred in Berhampur, raises serious concerns about safety and relationships in today's digital age. Discover the details behind this tragic event and the ongoing investigation.
Key Takeaways
- A 27-year-old man was arrested for the murder of his lover.
- The victim's minor daughter was also assaulted.
- Police utilized CCTV footage to track the suspect.
- The suspect has a history of serious allegations.
- The case raises awareness about the dangers of online relationships.
Bhubaneswar, Aug 19 (NationPress) The Berhampur Police have apprehended a 27-year-old individual from Karnataka in connection with the murder of his paramour and the brutal assault on her minor daughter in the Lochapada locality of Berhampur on August 10, as stated by Superintendent of Police Saravana Vivek M on Tuesday.
On August 11, a complaint was lodged by Chitrasen Swain, who reported that her sister Gayatri Swain was found deceased, and her daughter, Neelam, was in a severe condition at Gayatri’s residence in Sreema Nagar, Lochapada, Berhampur. The police promptly registered a case and initiated an investigation.
Through their inquiry, law enforcement discovered that in 2019, the victim, who resided with her husband Sadhu Charan Swain and daughter Neelam in Koraput, connected with the suspect via Facebook.
As their relationship deepened, Gayatri invited the accused to Berhampur and provided him a rented home close to hers in Raghupati Nagar. The couple even eloped to Mumbai, where they stayed for ten days.
Subsequently, Gayatri's husband filed a missing person report at the Badabazar Police Station, alleging that she had run away with Sunil Swain from Manikpur, HinjiliKatu in Ganjam district. After a brief return, Gayatri faced rejection from her in-laws and opted to reside with her husband and daughter in a rented house.
When her husband was reassigned to Bhubaneswar, Gayatri invited Sunil once again to Berhampur.
With Gayatri's assistance, the accused opened a vegetable shop in Lochapada, and they began meeting clandestinely at her new residence in Sreema Nagar.
However, following a recent conflict, Gayatri started to distance herself from Sunil. During Rakhi Purnima, she visited her village with Neelam, severing ties with him. Feeling humiliated and despondent, Sunil resolved to murder Gayatri.
On the evening of August 10, Gayatri returned home with her daughter. That night, Sunil confronted her, leading to a violent altercation where he fatally attacked Gayatri with a sharp instrument, causing her death on the spot,” reported Berhampur SP.
The suspect also injured the victim’s daughter before fleeing, believing she was deceased.
Neelam is currently receiving treatment at AIIMS, BBSR. During the investigation, authorities retrieved CCTV footage capturing Sunil entering and exiting Gayatri’s residence around 9:45 PM and after midnight.
A specialized police unit was established that led to Sunil's arrest in Karnataka on August 16, aided by RPF personnel at Wadi railway station. Further inquiry revealed that the accused's real name is Santanu Patra (29), originally from the Khantapada area in Balasore district.
“He is also wanted in a 2019 POCSO case involving the rape of his cousins. After going into hiding, he began working in Mumbai and met the deceased through Facebook during that period,” added the Berhampur SP.
Point of View
I emphasize the need for compassion and understanding in reporting such tragic events. This incident serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities in human relationships, especially in the context of modern technology. We must strive for responsible reporting that highlights the need for support systems for victims and the importance of community awareness.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the circumstances leading to the murder?
The suspect, having previously engaged in a romantic relationship with the victim, reacted violently when she began to distance herself from him following a misunderstanding.
How did the police apprehend the suspect?
The Berhampur police formed a special team that tracked the suspect down to Karnataka, where he was arrested with the assistance of railway police.
What is the current condition of the victim's daughter?
The victim's daughter, Neelam, is currently undergoing treatment at AIIMS, BBSR, and her condition is being monitored.
What previous allegations does the suspect have?
The suspect, Santanu Patra, is wanted in a 2019 POCSO case involving the rape of his cousins.
What implications does this case have for society?
This case highlights the need for increased vigilance regarding domestic violence and the impact of online relationships on personal safety.
