Bhubaneswar, Oct 5: In a major statewide crackdown ahead of the festive season, Odisha Police intensified its efforts against criminals, anti-social elements, drug traffickers, illegal liquor networks and other unlawful activities under its special ‘Daman’ drive.
Launched on September 21 on the direction of Director General of Police (DGP) Vinaytosh Mishra, the operation has brought together District Police, Commissionerate Police, Railway Police and other police units in a coordinated effort to strengthen law and order and ensure a safe environment for people during the upcoming festivities.
Crackdown on Wanted Criminals
As part of the drive, police stepped up action against wanted offenders and anti-social elements. A total of 1,448 Non-Bailable Warrants (NBWs) were executed, while proceedings were initiated against 1,012 persons under Section 129 of the BNSS.
The intensified action is aimed at preventing repeat offences and keeping habitual offenders under close watch.
Major Push Against Drugs
The anti-narcotics operation yielded significant seizures. Police registered 89 NDPS cases and arrested 109 persons. Around 8.13 tonnes of ganja was seized during the drive.
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In addition, 19,387 ganja plants were destroyed, while police also seized 394.645 grams of brown sugar and 1,066 bottles of cough syrup.
Illegal Liquor Trade Under Scanner
The crackdown also targeted violations of the Excise Act. Police registered 1,707 cases and arrested 140 persons.
The seizures included 10,298.24 litres of illicit country liquor, 2,922.409 litres of foreign liquor and 1,092.54 litres of Aska-40. Police also seized 800 kg of fermented mash (pocha) and 81 litres of country (mahuli) liquor.
Action Against Gambling and Extortion
Police also intensified action against gambling and forcible collection of money. Forty-six gambling cases were registered, leading to the arrest of 67 persons and seizure of Rs 4,36,086.
In cases relating to forcible collection of donations/extortion, 16 cases were registered and 12 persons were arrested. Police seized Rs 10,520 in connection with these cases.
Illegal Arms and Organised Crime Targeted
The operation also focused on illegal weapons, ammunition and explosives. Police registered six cases and seized five firearms, one revolver, four rounds of ammunition, one magazine, two empty cartridges, 2.5 kg of explosive material and two swords.
In a parallel crackdown on organised crime, seven cases were registered and 18 persons were arrested.
1,830 Blocking and Border-Sealing Operations
To prevent the movement of drugs, illegal liquor, weapons and other prohibited materials, police conducted 1,830 blocking and border-sealing operations across the State.
Checking was intensified along inter-district and inter-state routes, with police keeping a close watch on the movement of suspected offenders and illegal consignments.
Focus on Safe and Peaceful Festivities
The ‘Daman’ drive reflects Odisha Police’s emphasis on preventive policing, coordinated enforcement and proactive crime control ahead of the festive season.
DGP Vinaytosh Mishra said that police action would continue in the coming days to ensure peace, security and a safe environment for the people of Odisha. The ongoing measures are also aimed at further strengthening preventive policing and keeping criminal and anti-social activities under effective control.
