In a decisive move to curb criminal activities, the Berhampur Police in Odisha launched a special drive on May 31, 2025, resulting in the arrest of seven notorious criminals.
The operation, conducted by the Baidyanathpur and Gosainuagaon police stations, uncovered a significant cache of weapons, ammunition, mobile phones, and cash, highlighting the intensity of the crackdown.
The special drive, initiated under the directives of IGP Niti Shekhar, targeted organised crime in the region. Berhampur SP Dr. Saravana Vivek M, addressing a press conference at the district police HQs, detailed the operation’s success. “We have apprehended seven hardcore criminals involved in multiple cases, with plans to execute major crimes,” he stated. The police seized 7 Mausers, 6 magazines, 34 live bullets, 6 mobile phones, and Rs 1,11,500 in cash from the suspects.
The Baidyanathpur police, during routine vehicle checks, arrested two individuals, Ranjana Gouda (40) and Susil Kumar Panda (47), with firearms in their possession. A case (262/25) was registered, leading to the seizure of three guns, 34 live bullets, 6 empty gun shells, and ₹1,11,500 in cash. Meanwhile, the Gosainuagaon police, after initiating a probe, filed a case (182/25) and apprehended five suspects: Suraj Padhy (39), Gobardhan Patra (38), Sumant Patra (39), Susil Kumar Sahu (34), and Rabindra Kumar Maharana (50). From them, authorities recovered one pistol, 9 bullets, one air gun, 5 hand bombs, 6 mobile phones, and 22 ATM cards from various banks.
Further investigation revealed Rabindra Kumar Maharana, a resident of Hapapada village under Jankia police station in Khordha district, as a key supplier of firearms. His arrest followed crucial intelligence linking him to the weapons trade in Ganjam district. SP Dr. Saravana Vivek M confirmed that one of the arrested individuals was an ATM card thief, with 22 ATM cards seized, pointing to a broader network of criminal activities.
The special drive extended across Ganjam and Berhampur, with police seizing 25 Mausers in two phases in Ganjam and 11 in Berhampur. All arrested individuals have been forwarded to court, and the Berhampur police continue their investigation to uncover additional links and prevent future crimes. This operation marks a significant step in dismantling organised crime networks in the region, sending a strong message to wrongdoers.
The police remain vigilant, with SP Dr. Saravana Vivek M assuring the public of sustained efforts to ensure safety and security. As the investigation progresses, authorities anticipate more revelations about the criminal underworld in Odisha.
