Cuttack, June 11: Police today began investigation into the murder of Sagar Panda whose bullet-riddled body was recovered from near Budhianipata bridge on the Kishorenagar-Sompur Road yesterday evening.

The body of Panda, 47, was reportedly wrapped in a gunny bag and was thrown off the bridge around 7.30pm. Sources said three persons came in a sports utility vehicle and threw his body off the bridge before fleeing the spot.

Panda, who has criminal antecedents, was hit by two bullets on his head and chest. The police suspect past gang rivalry to be a possible reason behind his murder.

Panda hails from Jaspada village that falls in Kotuan gram panchayat within the limits of Kishorenagar police station. A few days ago, goons had hurled two crude bombs at his residence. His family members alleged it was a pre-planned murder.

Panda, who was working as a contractor, allegedly had links with several criminal gangs for the last five years.