Bhubaneswar, June 25 (UDN): Panic gripped the bustling Sriya Square area in the heart of Bhubaneswar late Tuesday night after a group of armed miscreants allegedly attacked roadside vendors, vandalised several food stalls and injured two persons, police said.

The incident occurred near ‘S Complex’ under the jurisdiction of Kharavel Nagar Police Station, sending shockwaves among local shopkeepers and residents.

According to eyewitnesses, four unidentified assailants armed with swords and cleavers descended on the area at around 9.30 pm and unleashed a reign of terror. The attackers allegedly ransacked roadside fast-food and pani puri stalls, damaging shop structures and scattering food items and other materials.

Two persons sustained serious injuries in the attack and were immediately shifted to Capital Hospital for treatment. Their condition is stated to be stable.

Preliminary investigation suggests that the violence may have stemmed from an earlier altercation between the accused and stall owners over non-payment of food bills. One of the vendors alleged that the assailants had visited the stalls earlier in the evening and returned later with associates armed with sharp weapons.

“The attackers suddenly assaulted us and vandalised all the shops after an argument over payment,” a victim alleged, claiming that one of the accused was known to local vendors.

Soon after receiving information, personnel from Kharavel Nagar Police Station rushed to the spot and launched an investigation. A large crowd gathered in the area following the incident.

Police have begun examining CCTV footage from nearby establishments and are recording statements of eyewitnesses to identify and apprehend those involved. The exact motive behind the attack is yet to be officially established.

A senior police officer said efforts are underway to trace the accused and further investigation into the incident is in progress.