Bhubaneswar, July 20 (UDN): A 24-year-old youth sustained critical injuries after he was allegedly chased and attacked with a sword by a group of assailants in broad daylight in Bhubaneswar’s Samantarapur area on Monday, sending shockwaves through the locality.

The victim, identified as Deepak, was reportedly intercepted by the attackers under the Lingaraj police limits. Eyewitnesses said the assailants chased him before launching a brutal assault with a sharp weapon, leaving him lying in a pool of blood.

Locals rushed to his rescue and shifted him to Capital Hospital in Bhubaneswar. However, as his condition worsened, doctors referred him to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack for advanced treatment. Hospital sources said he had sustained grievous injuries.

Soon after receiving information, a team from Lingaraj Police Station reached the spot and began an investigation. Police have also started efforts to identify and trace the attackers.

Preliminary investigation suggests the assault may have stemmed from a family dispute. However, officials said the exact motive behind the attack is yet to be established, and all possible angles are being examined.

The brazen attack in the middle of the day has raised concerns over public safety among local residents, many of whom demanded swift action against those responsible.

Police are examining eyewitness accounts and collecting evidence from the crime scene. No arrests had been made till the filing of this report.