Bhubaneswar Elderly Woman Murder: Police Suspect another Person’s Involvement Along With Caretaker

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Bhubaneswar: The investigation into the brutal murder of elderly woman Kunjalata in the Buddhanagar area under Laxmisagar Police Station in Bhubaneswar has taken a new turn. Police now suspecting the involvement of another person along with the absconding caretaker.

Police have intensified their investigation into the sensational murder, trying to ascertain whether robbery was the sole motive behind the crime or whether there was another reason.

According to reports, police have formed three special teams to trace the absconding caretaker, identified as Balabhadra Maharana, and his suspected accomplice. Investigators are examining CCTV footage from different locations and gathering information about a scooter allegedly used by the suspects.

Police are trying to establish the escape route taken by the suspects after the murder, their possible hideouts and whether anyone else helped them flee.

Meanwhile, allegations of the theft of 15 bhari of gold ornaments and Rs 60,000 in cash have added another dimension to the investigation.

Investigators are examining whether the caretaker had prior knowledge of the valuables kept inside the house and whether the crime was premeditated.

Questions have also emerged over whether Maharana, who had reportedly been working at the house for around four months, deliberately gained the elderly woman’s trust and closely monitored the household’s activities and security arrangements before allegedly committing the crime.

Police are also investigating whether the robbery was planned well in advance or carried out following a sudden decision.

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As part of the investigation, police have reportedly questioned other domestic helpers employed at the house and individuals who regularly visited the elderly woman.

Investigators are attempting to identify the suspected accomplice, determine how long the person had been in contact with Maharana and establish whether information about the house and its valuables had been shared beforehand.

The murder has also raised serious concerns over the safety and security of senior citizens living alone in Bhubaneswar.

Although police have special arrangements for the protection of elderly residents, including Senior Citizen Cells operating in different police station jurisdictions, the incident has raised questions about their effectiveness.

It has also highlighted the need for regular police interaction with elderly people living alone and proper verification of caretakers and domestic workers employed in their homes.

Further investigation is underway.

Also read: Bhubaneswar: Caretaker Switches Off CCTV, Allegedly Kills Elderly Woman and Flees with Valuables,…

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