Ganjam Police major breakthrough: 17 guns, live ammunition seized; 18 arrested in special drive

In a significant crackdown on criminal activities, Ganjam Police has successfully arrested 18 notorious criminals during a coordinated special drive across several police station limits. The operation, conducted under the direct supervision of Ganjam Superintendent of Police Shubendu Kumar Patra, led to the recovery of a substantial cache of arms and illegal items.

Seizures Made

According to police sources, the special drive was carried out in Asika, Sheragada, Kotinada, Bhanjanagar, and Polasara police station jurisdictions, resulting in the seizure of:

17 country-made firearms (mouzers)

66 live rounds of ammunition

16 mobile phones suspected to be used in criminal communication

This well-coordinated effort involved officers from multiple police stations and subdivisions. SDPOs of Purushottampur, Aska, and Bhanjanagar along with other senior officers participated actively in the operation, which targeted known criminals and suspected gang members operating in the region.

“Special drive is continuing for the last few days. All are sophisticated weapons and we suspect that that these are like those made in Bihar. All the arrested accused are veteran criminals and we are further verifying their antecedents as well,” said Niti Sekhar, IG Southern Range.

SP Shubendu Patra commended the teamwork and meticulous planning that went into executing the drive and emphasized that such operations would continue to ensure the safety and security of the citizens of Ganjam district. He also warned that any attempt to disturb peace or engage in organized crime will be met with strong legal action.

The accused are currently being interrogated for further leads, and the recovered arms and materials have been sent for forensic examination. Police have also hinted at the possibility of unearthing larger criminal networks based on the data recovered from the seized mobile phones.

The operation has been widely appreciated by locals, with many expressing relief over the swift action taken by the police to maintain law and order in the district.