Ahead of Rath, Puri police launch special drive against criminals

Bhubaneswar: Ahead of Rath Yatra, Puri police have intensified crackdown on criminals to ensure a safe and peaceful festival for devotees. Puri SP Prateek Singh said the special drive would see tough action against habitual offenders and those who harass pilgrims.“We have instructed all police stations, particularly in the city sub‑division, to launch coordinated drives against wanted criminals and repeat offenders. The focus is on extortionists and thieves who often target devotees,” Singh told the media on Monday.In the past 24 hours, police arrested 23 people in connection with various crimes inside the city sub‑division, the SP stated. Among them was a man who allegedly tried to extort money from devotees by promising hassle‑free darshan.

“Such attempts to exploit faith will not be tolerated. We are determined to ensure that pilgrims feel secure during the Yatra,” Singh asserted.Police have also launched extensive inspections of hotels and lodges to detect suspicious activity. Patrolling has been intensified around the Jagannath Temple and the beach, while anti‑snatching squad remains on high alert inside the shrine premises. “Massive enforcement drives are underway against people consuming alcohol in public places and creating nuisance. Our objective is to maintain discipline and prevent any disruption to the sanctity of the festival,” the SP said.