Angul, Feb. 28 -- Odisha police have arrested an accused in connection with the alleged rape and murder of a 12-year-old girl near NTPC Kaniha, police said on Saturday.

Angul Superintendent of Police (SP) Rahul Jain confirmed that a specialized team, including the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) unit and a dog squad, processed the crime scene. Based on allegations from the victim's family, authorities registered an FIR under sections relating to rape and murder.

Jain said that the arrest was made within 24 hours following the formation of the team after the victim's body was discovered on Thursday morning.

Speaking to reporters, the SP said. "On 26 February, we received a report of a 12-year-old minor missing at the NTPC Police Stati...