The Odisha Police has launched a resolute offensive against syndicates involved in the illegal smuggling of minor minerals such as sand, morrum (laterite soil), and mankada stone (laterite blocks), as well as illegal cattle transportation across the state.
Under the recently conducted “Operation Dharapagad,” police teams carried out coordinated raids at various locations, resulting in significant seizures and legal actions.
According to a press release from the State Police Headquarters, the operation aimed to curb the rampant smuggling of minor minerals and cattle trafficking. To date, 134 cases have been registered statewide against mineral mafias, leading to the seizure of 163 vehicles, including sand-loaded tractors, trucks, tippers, and hyvas. Additionally, 14 individuals have been arrested, while notices have been issued to over 92 others suspected of involvement.
District-wise highlights include Mayurbhanj Police registering 39 cases and seizing 45 vehicles, Balasore Police filing 32 cases with 67 vehicles impounded, Bhadrak Police lodging 18 cases and seizing 18 vehicles, and Ganjam Police registering 33 cases with an equal number of vehicles confiscated.
In a parallel crackdown on illegal cattle smuggling, 23 cases have been filed, resulting in the arrest of 31 persons.
The drive has been personally directed by Director General of Police (DGP) Yogesh Bahadur Khurania, who emphasised identifying and apprehending notorious criminals, taking strict measures against anti-social elements, and intensifying actions against illegal minor mineral smuggling and cattle trafficking.
The operation was supervised by Additional DGP (Law & Order) Sanjay Kumar, with Superintendents of Police (SPs) from all districts actively participating.
