Odisha Police Launches Major Operation After Maoists Steal Explosives

Intensified Security Measures in Odisha

In a significant escalation of security efforts, the Odisha Police has ramped up operations along the border with Jharkhand following a brazen theft of explosives by Maoists. This operation was initiated in the K Balang police station area of Sundargarh district, just a day after the rebels made off with a substantial cache of explosive materials intended for stone mining. Senior officials, including DGP YB Khurania and IG (Operations) Deepak Kumar, visited the site to assess the situation.

The police managed to locate the truck that had been commandeered by the Maoists in a forested area near Saranda, which is adjacent to Jharkhand. However, the explosives were nowhere to be found, according to a police spokesperson. A case has been filed at the K Balang police station, with authorities suspecting Maoist involvement in the theft. Despite the absence of the stolen materials, police have received indications pointing towards the rebels' participation, as the truck driver reported that the assailants identified themselves as Naxals.