Deogarh: Police on Saturday arrested the main accused in the sensational triple murder case in Odisha’s Deogarh district, three days after he had gone absconding following the killings.

Accused found hiding atop water tank

The accused, identified as Ramesh Garia (52), was spotted atop a 70-foot-high overhead water tank at Gariapali village under the jurisdiction of Kundheigola Police Station on Saturday morning.

According to sources, villagers noticed his presence on the tank and immediately informed the police.

Acting on the tip-off, police personnel rushed to the spot and, with the assistance of firefighters, safely brought the accused down from the tank and took him into custody.

Hospitalised after allegedly consuming poison

Sources said the accused was later admitted to Kundheigola PHC as he had reportedly consumed poison before being rescued.

His condition is being monitored while police continue further investigation.

Triple murder shocked the district

Ramesh Garia is accused of brutally killing three members of his family on Tuesday night. The victims were his wife Gul Garia (42), daughter-in-law Lipi Mahakul (24), and four-year-old granddaughter Ishani Garia.

Police said the accused allegedly attacked the trio with a hammer following a dispute at their residence. All three victims died due to the severe injuries.

After committing the crime, the accused fled from the spot.

Investigation underway

A complaint regarding the incident was later lodged by the accused’s son at Kundheigola Police Station, following which police launched a search operation to trace him.

Authorities said the exact motive behind the gruesome killings is yet to be ascertained and further investigation is underway.