Did Odisha DGP Confirm Recovery of 3.8 Tonnes of Explosives Looted by Armed Maoists?
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Synopsis
In a significant development, Odisha's DGP YB Khurania announced the recovery of 3.8 tonnes of explosives stolen by Maoists during a daylight robbery. This incident highlights serious lapses in security protocol and ongoing efforts to apprehend the culprits involved.
Key Takeaways
- 3.8 tonnes of explosives recovered out of 5 tonnes stolen.
- Joint operation involving Odisha Police, Jharkhand Police, and CRPF ongoing.
- Special investigative team formed to probe the heist.
- Police are checking compliance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) at explosive magazines.
- Arrests made in connection with the case.
Bhubaneswar, June 4 (NationPress) The Director General of Police in Odisha, YB Khurania, announced on Wednesday that 3.8 tonnes of explosives have been recovered from the approximately 5 tonnes looted by armed Maoists on May 27 in the Sundargarh district.
While addressing the media, Khurania confirmed the involvement of armed Maoist groups in the brazen theft of a substantial quantity of explosives, which occurred when they hijacked a vehicle in the Banko Mines area under the K Balanga police limits.
“Following the incident, a joint search operation was initiated by the Odisha Police, Jharkhand Police, and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in the Saranda Jungle. This operation commenced on the night of May 27 and is ongoing. So far, around 3.8 tonnes of the stolen explosives have been recovered, with efforts continuing to locate the remaining stock,” he stated.
Furthermore, a special investigative team led by an Additional Superintendent of Police from Rourkela has been tasked with probing the heist.
On June 1, police received a tip-off regarding a suspicious vehicle parked near a petrol pump in Rourkela. The DGP revealed that the explosives found in this vehicle originated from the same magazine that supplied the explosives looted from Banko Mines. A separate case has been registered, and the magazine in question has been sealed.
The owner of the explosive magazine, along with his driver, has been arrested and presented in court. Investigations are ongoing.
The DGP also mentioned that police have begun checks at explosive magazines across various districts in the Northern, Western, and Southwestern ranges of the state to ensure compliance with the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) concerning explosives.
“We anticipate the results of these checks within a couple of days, and the efforts of the Odisha police will persist,” he added.
Khurania commended the personnel of the Odisha Police, including the SOG (Special Operation Group) and District Voluntary Force (DVF) members, alongside the Jharkhand Police’s Jaguar Force and the CRPF’s CoBRA Units, for their relentless efforts resulting in the recovery of a significant portion of the stolen explosives. “We aim to recover the remaining explosives and apprehend all individuals connected to this incident,” he stated.
However, Khurania acknowledged lapses on the part of the police and other agencies regarding the explosives heist. The Odisha police are investigating adherence to SOPs established under various acts and identifying any rule violations. They are committed to implementing corrective measures to address these lapses.
He clarified that the magazine owner failed to notify the police or district administration about the movement of explosives to the Banko Mines.
Point of View
The situation in Odisha underscores the pressing need for enhanced security measures in regions affected by Maoist activities. The effective collaboration between state and central forces is crucial in addressing such challenges. Our commitment remains with the nation, focusing on safety and security for all citizens.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was stolen by the Maoists?
The armed Maoists stole approximately 5 tonnes of explosives from the Banko Mines area.
How much of the stolen explosives have been recovered?
As of now, 3.8 tonnes of the stolen explosives have been recovered.
What actions are being taken by the police?
The police have launched a joint operation with the CRPF and Jharkhand Police and are conducting checks on explosive magazines across various districts.
Have any arrests been made?
Yes, the owner of the explosive magazine and his driver have been arrested in connection with the case.
What measures are being taken to prevent such incidents in the future?
The police are reviewing adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure compliance and prevent future violations.
