Odisha Police: Three Arrested Over Gang-Raping College Girl in Puri

In Odisha’s Puri district, three people were arrested on Monday in connection with the gang-rape of a college girl. Police said a manhunt has been launched to nab the other accused involved in the crime.

The incident took place on Saturday at noon near the Baliharchandi temple under the Brahmagiri police station limits. The victim had gone to the beach near the temple with her male friend when they were confronted by two men from Chandiput village.

According to Puri Sadar SDPO Rabinarayan Bhanj, “The two allegedly blackmailed the couple, threatening to inform their families about their meeting each other. They also extorted ₹2,000 from the couple. The situation escalated when the assailants tied the woman’s friend to a tree and raped her in his presence. The victim was further assaulted by them along with two more persons.”

On Saturday, three men from Chandiput were taken into custody for interrogation and later arrested. Police confirmed they are still searching for the others involved.

The survivor lodged a First Information Report (FIR) on Monday evening, two days after the incident. She has since undergone a medical examination.