Odisha Police bust major burglary gang, 14 held; stolen property worth Rs 40 lakh recovered

Jajpur (Odisha): In a major crackdown on organised crime, Odisha Police have arrested 14 members of an armed burglary gang operating across multiple districts and recovered stolen property valued at around Rs 40 lakh.

As part of the operation, police also seized a four-wheeler, motorcycles, weapons and 15 mobile phones allegedly used during the crimes. The arrested individuals are residents of Jajpur, Kendrapara and Cuttack, officials said.

The action was carried out under ‘Operation Night Sweeper’, a targeted initiative launched to curb the rising number of burglaries in the region. Police said the gang had been involved in several high-profile robbery and dacoity cases across Jajpur district.

During the raids, police recovered Rs 5.9 lakh in cash, 225 grams of gold, 2.4 kg of silver, 15 mobile phones, three motorcycles and a range of sharp weapons. Officers believe the valuables are linked to multiple recent burglary and robbery cases.

Central Range DIG Satyajit Nayak said the accused were responsible for a series of robberies in the Dharmasala area, where repeated incidents had caused widespread concern among residents.

“Over the past six months, several burglary cases have been reported in Jajpur district. Multiple police teams worked under ‘Operation Night Sweeper’, leading to the arrest of 14 persons and recovery of silver, gold, motorcycles, arms and ammunition,” the DIG was quoted as saying.

Police said the arrests represent a significant step in dismantling organised burglary networks in the region. Investigations are ongoing and officials expect more recoveries and additional arrests as the case progresses.

(with inputs from agencies)