Baripada (Mayurbhanj): A man accused of brutally killing his four-year-old son in Odisha's Mayurbhanj district has been arrested by the police after allegedly fleeing the scene of the crime.

The incident took place on Thursday in Purunapani village under the jurisdiction of Sarat Police Station. According to police, the accused, identified as Sohan Singh, allegedly attacked his four-year-old son, Dumbi Singh, with a sharp weapon, resulting in the child's death inside their house.

After the incident, the accused reportedly escaped from the spot. However, local villagers later apprehended him and handed him over to the police. Sarat police subsequently arrested the accused and took him into custody.

Police have also seized the sharp weapon allegedly used in the murder as part of the investigation.

The exact motive behind the killing remains unclear. Preliminary reports suggest that the child was alone inside the house and had been crying, which allegedly enraged the father. There are also unverified claims that the accused may have been influenced by superstitious beliefs. However, police have not confirmed these claims.

Authorities said the actual reason behind the murder will be determined after a detailed investigation. A case has been registered, and further investigation is underway.