Massive raids underway on explosives warehouses across Odisha

In a coordinated operation, Odisha Police are investigating stockpiles of explosive materials across multiple districts. The drive aims to uncover any illegal storage or irregularities amid increasing concerns over public safety and unlicensed explosive storage facilities.

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This was informed by the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police-Western Range on Tuesday.

According to the police sources, in a significant crackdown, cops have launched a detailed probe into explosive materials stored in various parts of Odisha. The operation is currently underway in Sundargarh and Keonjhar districts. Authorities are inspecting the stock and documentation at multiple explosives warehouses. The Western Range DIG confirmed that the inspections aim to ensure compliance with legal norms and safety protocols.

Non-compliance to invite stringent action

In a major move, police teams raided a gunpowder factory at Nuapali under Bonai police limits. Additionally, inspections are underway at 11 warehouse locations in Keonjhar district, including Ghatagaon, Barbil, Balani, Joda, and Rugudi. The drive includes checking both the quantity of explosive materials stored and all related legal documentation.

“After the Rourkela incident, a drive was started to make the magazine owners aware, to ensure the procedures laid down in the Explosives Act, and to ensure safe transportation of explosives in the district,” Keonjhar SP, Kusalkar Nitin Dagdu, said to mediapersons.

“We are conducting a detailed survey, and the report is likely to be completed by today. Initially, we will give them a chance to rectify the shortfalls, if any, and stringent actions will be taken thereafter. A meeting of all explosives warehouse owners and IICs of the police stations concerned will be held later in the evening,” the Keonjhar SP expressed.

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“A brief time will be allowed to them to step up the security arrangements. However, we will recommend for action if the owners would not mend their ways,” the Keonjhar SP added.