Bhubaneswar: The Special Task Force (STF) arrested 140 persons for their involvement in different criminal activities in Odisha in 2020.
In a major drive against smuggling of narcotic substances, the STF seized 23.5 kg brown sugar, 44 quintal ganja, 14 arms and 34 ammunition during the year. The STF also seized fake India currency notes valued at Rs 5.29 lakh.
The drive against black-marketing led to seizure of 66000 ltr PDS kerosene and 196 quintals ammonia nitrate. Similarly, 3200 gelatine sticks and 10,406 detonators that were supposed to be illegally used in stone mining were seized.
The STF also conducted raids on the units producing fake tobacco products and seized Rs 22,95,975 in cash. Precious stones weighing 453 kg were also seized while being smuggled.
In its steps against immoral trafficking, the STF rescued seven Bangladeshi girls in the year.
The drive against poaching of wildlife led to seizure of seven leopard skins, 5 kg pangolin scale, two deer skin and 4.6 quintal sandal wood. Besides, two live pangolins were rescued.