The body of a shopkeeper was found hanging from a tree inPatnagarharea ofBolangirdistrict on Wednesday morning, triggering suspicion and tension in the locality. The recovery was made by Patnagarh police near the Jambahal–Malikmunda Road.

According to police, the deceased, believed to be a resident of Barbahal village in Bolangir district, was found hanging about 200 metres away from the main road, while his two-wheeler was recovered around 50 metres from the spot. The identity of the deceased is yet to be officially confirmed.

Sources said the shopkeeper had reportedly gone to Jogimuda to purchase grocery items when the incident occurred.

Upon receiving information, police rushed to the spot and initiated an investigation. A scientific and forensic team has been deployed to conduct a detailed examination of the scene.

Meanwhile, family members of the deceased have alleged that the incident is a case of murder made to look like suicide. Relatives claimed that the shopkeeper had no known enmity with anyone and demanded a thorough probe into the incident.

Police are also examining the possibility of robbery or loot, considering the location where the body and the two-wheeler were found.

A case has been registered, and further investigation is underway. Police officials said all possible angles are being probed to ascertain the exact circumstances surrounding the shopkeeper’s death and have appealed to the public to come forward with any information related to the case.