In a major breakthrough in the sensational Balianta Soumya Ranjan Swain lynching case on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar on May 7 that shocked the state, Odisha Crime Branch on Tuesday arrested two key accused allegedly involved in the brutal killing.

The arrested accused have been identified as Panchanan Badjena alias Kalia and Ranjit Rana. Acting on substantial evidence gathered during the investigation, Crime Branch officials apprehended the duo from the Ranpur jungle area of Nayagarh district.

According to investigators, the probe has revealed the involvement of the arrested accused in physically assaulting the deceased during the incident. 

So far, a total of 15 persons have been arrested in connection with the case. Of these, 11 accused had already been arrested earlier by the local police.

Also Read: Balianta Soumya Ranjan lynching: All accused identified, informs Crime Branch DG

As per sources, the investigation is continuing on a priority basis, with efforts underway to identify and apprehend other individuals involved in the incident.

Earlier, Odisha Crime Branch DG Vinaytosh Mishra stated that all the accused involved in the lynching case had been identified, while the investigation into the sensational case was continuing from all angles.