Bhubaneswar: ‘Operation Garuda’ launched by Odisha Police from August 1-16 has yielded significant results in combating crime, illegal drug trade, and anti-social activities across the state.
The operation led to execution of 3,643 non-bailable warrants (NBWs), registration of 1,806 excise cases with seizure of over 47,000 litres of illicit liquor, and confiscation of 63 firearms and 95 rounds of ammunition.
Additionally, over 3,000 kg of ganja and 664 grams of brown sugar were seized, resulting in 57 NDPS cases.
Police also seized Rs 6.28 lakh in cash and 55 vehicles, including 52 bikes, in 70 gambling-related cases, and registered 163 drunken driving cases.
A total of 406 criminals were arrested.
Ganjam district saw the highest number of NBWs executed (383) and 11 firearms seized, with 30 arrests for illegal arms trafficking. Sambalpur district led in gambling cases (10), with Rs 31,760 seized and 18 arrests. A total of 12 NDPS cases were also registered in the district following seizure of 50 kg of ganja and 2,599 bottles of cough syrup and 24 arrests. Sambalpur also recorded the highest number of excise cases (182) with 1,612 litres of illicit liquor being seized. A total of 182 persons were apprehended.
In Kandhamal, 5 tonnes of explosives were seized and five persons were arrested.
The operation was launched to enhance police visibility and instil a sense of safety and security among the citizens. All Superintendents of Police (SPs) have been directed to continue such operations with sustained intensity to maintain peace and security across the state.
