Kandhamal, May 15: In a major crackdown on illegal firearms and crime, Tumudibandh Police recovered eight illegal country-made guns from Birimila forest.

Acting on a confidential tip-off, the police raided the forest where these firearms were being secretly kept. Officials confirmed that the seized weapons were reportedly intended for poaching and other criminal activities.

“The independent operations to seize unlicensed country-made guns are underway across Kandhamal,” a police spokesperson said.

So far, a total of 42 illegal firearms have been seized from different police stations, and 15 accused persons have been arrested, Baliguda SDPO Shubham Bhosale informed.

Police have advised anyone in possession of unlicensed firearms to deposit them at the nearest police station to avoid legal action.

The special drive underscores Kandhamal Police’s commitment to curbing illegal arms and maintaining law and order in the district.