Berhampur, May 27: Following strict directions from the Director General of Police on maintaining law and order in the state, Berhampur Police has intensified its crackdown on criminal activities. In a major operation, police have reportedly encountered five criminals within a week, signaling a strong action-oriented approach against organized crime.

A high-level law and order review meeting was held at the district police office, where Berhampur SP Dr. Saravana Vivek M delivered a clear message of “zero tolerance” towards crime and criminals. Senior police officials and all police station IICs attended the meeting.

The SP directed officers to closely monitor habitual offenders and prepare a detailed list of professional criminals operating in different areas. Police stations have been instructed to maintain complete records of criminal activities, including gang formations, rivalry among gangs, gang leaders, and movements of offenders released on bail.

Police will also monitor criminals after their release from jail and conduct counseling sessions at police stations to discourage them from returning to illegal activities. Authorities have been asked to ensure strict judicial action against offenders and, where necessary, oppose bail pleas in court.

To strengthen policing, additional IICs have been deployed at Berhampur Sadar, Nimakhandi, and Town police stations. Patrolling across the city will be intensified to prevent crimes committed by gangs attempting to establish dominance.

According to police sources, several gangs in the city are involved in illegal arms trade, ganja smuggling, and brown sugar trafficking, often leading to violent turf wars. The SP has instructed special teams to gather intelligence and take immediate action against those involved.

As part of the intensified security drive, police conducted a foot march in the Gosain Nuagaon and Town police station areas on Wednesday to boost public confidence and maintain law and order.