Operation Agni: Odisha Police Cracks Down on Illegal Fireworks Ahead of Festive Season
In a sweeping 14-day crackdown across Odisha, the state police have seized illegal fireworks and explosives worth Rs 8.25 crore under “Operation Agni,” a pre-festive campaign aimed at ensuring public safety.
Spearheaded by DGP Yogesh Bahadur Khurania and supervised by ADGP Sanjay Kumar, the operation ran from September 14 to 27, targeting unauthorised storage, transport, and sale of hazardous materials.
The campaign resulted in:
- 184 cases registered
- 133 arrests made
- 45 notices issued
Districts like Boudh, Ganjam, Kendujhar, and Angul emerged as hotspots, with Boudh alone accounting for Rs 5 crore in seizures. The coordinated raids dismantled smuggling networks and sent a strong deterrent message to illegal traders.
Police urged citizens to purchase fireworks only from licensed vendors and report suspicious activities. “Festivals should light up joy, not danger,” the department emphasised, reinforcing its commitment to proactive policing during high-risk periods like Diwali.
