Police Arrest Five with Weapons in Oranga River Bridge Murder
Key Points:
- Latehar police solve Munshi Bal Govind’s murder case from December 26, 2024.
- Five suspects arrested with weapons, including the murder weapon.
- Crime linked to extortion efforts under the SJMM banner.
LATEHAR – The Latehar police have solved the brutal murder case of Munshi (night guard) Bal Govind at the Oranga River Bridge construction site. Superintendent of Police (SP) Kumar Gaurav announced the arrest of five accused involved in the December 26, 2024, killing.
The SP stated that Bal Govind was mercilessly hacked to death with a hatchet at the construction site. A pamphlet bearing the name of the Jharkhand Sangharsh Jan Shakti Morcha (SJMM) claimed responsibility for the crime. This was reportedly intended to spread fear and support extortion activities in the region.
Investigation Leads to Arrests
Following the registration of FIR 211/24 by Bal Govind’s son, Pradeep Sahu, an SIT was formed under SDPO Arvind Kumar. The SIT’s investigation led to the January 3 arrests of five suspects from Pipragadha, Kenduwahi, in Bhusur village. The arrested individuals confessed to their roles in the murder, executed under the direction of Pradeep Ganjhu, also known as Pradeep Singh, associated with the SJMM.
The arrested include Bhuneshwar Singh alias Ankit (21), Ramesh Singh (24), Chhotey Lal Oraon (27), Ramchandra Oraon (24), and Sanoj Oraon (23). Police recovered three country-made firearms, two mobile phones, and the hatchet used in the crime.
Extensive Police Operation
The operation involved a team of officers, including SDPO Arvind Kumar, Inspector Dulaar Choudhary, and technical police personnel. Armed forces from Latehar police station and SET-1 also participated.
The SP emphasized that the arrests have dismantled an extortion network attempting to establish a foothold in the region under the guise of the SJMM. Further investigations are underway to ensure justice and regional safety.
