Tension gripped Odisha‘s, Bhanjanagar after unidentified miscreants allegedly hurled bombs at the residence of municipal chairperson Gopabandhu Mahapatra late on Thursday night, triggering panic among local residents.

According to preliminary information, the incident took place at around 12:30 am when nearly eight persons allegedly arrived near the house on four motorcycles.

Sources said the attackers had covered their faces with towels in an attempt to conceal their identities.

Loud Explosion Creates Panic In Locality

The miscreants allegedly hurled bombs towards the chairperson’s residence, causing a loud explosion that shook the locality late at night.

Family members alleged that the attackers were also shouting abuses and using foul language during the incident, further creating fear and chaos in the area.

Hearing the sound of the explosion, residents rushed out of their houses in panic. Though no injuries were reported, the attack left family members and locals terrified.

At the time of the incident, municipal chairperson Gopabandhu Mahapatra was reportedly not present at the house.

Accused Flee After Sensing Police Arrival

According to sources, the accused persons fled from the spot soon after allegedly sensing police movement in the area.

After receiving information about the incident, Bhanjanagar IIC Jeevananda Jena, along with a police team, reached the spot and launched an investigation.

Police personnel inspected the area and began collecting evidence from the scene.

CCTV Footage Under Examination

Investigators are now examining CCTV footage from nearby areas to identify the motorcycles used in the incident and trace the masked attackers.

Police are also questioning local residents and trying to ascertain whether the attack was linked to personal rivalry, political enmity or any other dispute.

Though the exact motive behind the bomb attack is yet to be established, police suspect the incident may have been pre-planned.

Security has been tightened in the area following the late-night attack.

Further investigation into the incident is underway.