Puri Police Crack Down Ahead of Rath Yatra: 23 Arrested in 24 Hours
Puri Police have intensified enforcement measures ahead of the annual Rath Yatra to ensure safety and order in the holy city.
Within the last 24 hours, 23 individuals were arrested for extortion, intimidation, snatching, and other criminal activities.
Eight cases were registered across different police stations.
As part of the “Clean City Drive,” raids led to the seizure of swords, knives, iron rods, Corex bottles, and over 7,500 litres of liquor.
Authorities also took action against fraudsters who were duping devotees by promising easy darshan of Lord Jagannath in exchange for money.
Superintendent of Police Prateek Singh emphasised that the initiative aims to make Puri safe and crime‑free during the festival.
Since the beginning of the year, over 300 anti‑social elements have been arrested in the district.
Police have also registered 14 brown sugar cases (28 arrests), 19 Corex‑related cases (29 arrests), 623 drunken driving cases, and nearly 350 liquor‑related cases.
The special drive will continue, with all police stations instructed to maintain close coordination to ensure a peaceful and secure Rath Yatra for devotees and residents.
