Special operation nets 346 arrests, 1,448 non‑bailable warrants in Odisha

A targeted anti‑crime operation undertaken by Odisha police before the holiday season resulted in the detention of 346 suspects and the issuance of 1,448 non‑bailable warrants. The drive, directed by DGP Vinayatosh Mishra, engaged district, commissionerate, railway and other police units.

Under Section 129 of the Indian Penal Code, 1,012 individuals faced legal action. The NDPS Act saw 89 cases filed, 109 arrests made, and a massive drug haul comprising about 8.13 tonnes of ganja and 19,387 cannabis plants destroyed. In addition, 394.645 g of brown sugar and 1,066 bottles of khop syrup were seized.

Excise violations resulted in 1,707 cases and 140 arrests, with authorities confiscating 10,298.24 L of illegal desi liquor, 2,922.409 L of foreign liquor, 1,092.54 L of astral‑40, 800 kg of fermented wash and 81 L of mahua brew. Anti‑gambling measures led to 46 cases, 67 arrests and a cash seizure of ₹4,36,086.

Recovery offences added 16 cases, 12 arrests and ₹10,520 seized. Six arms‑related cases produced five firearms, one revolver, four cartridges, one magazine, 2.5 kg of gunpowder and two swords. Organized crime investigations produced seven cases and 18 arrests.

Security teams blocked 1,830 points of entry and intensified checks on inter‑district and interstate routes. The DGP reiterated that intensified patrolling and preventive action will persist throughout the festival period to ensure public safety.