Bhubaneswar, Sept 24: Khandagiri Police on Wednesday arrested Somnath Behera, the owner of the Thar vehicle involved in a tragic hit-and-run accident that claimed two lives in Bhubaneswar last month.

The incident took place on the day of Raksha Bandhan at Patrapada under Khandagiri police limits. An eight-year-old girl was killed on the spot after being hit by the speeding Thar. Her mother and another person sustained serious injuries. Despite medical efforts, the mother also succumbed to her injuries, leaving the family devastated.

Police had earlier arrested three individuals in connection with the case and produced them before court. However, Behera, a resident of Jatni, had been absconding for over six weeks. Acting on a tip-off, a police team tracked him down in Puri and arrested him.

His arrest follows repeated protests and road blockades by locals and the victim’s family, who had been demanding justice and stern action against the culprits.

The Police Commissioner confirmed Behera’s arrest and stated that further investigation is underway to establish his role in the crime and whether he attempted to shield those involved.

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