Police in Odisha are taking action against smuggling at sea, confiscating 3,500 liters of diesel.

In a recent development, the Odisha Police has made a significant seizure of approximately 3,500 litres of diesel and apprehended one individual on charges of secretly acquiring materials from ships in deep-sea areas. According to an officer, this operation was conducted in the coastal jurisdiction of Paradeep Marine Police area, under the Jagatsinghpur district police. Their statement revealed that during the operation, a motor-operated boat, suspected to be involved in illegal transportation, was intercepted by the police.

The seized items included the boat, the diesel, and other materials, which were confiscated on the spot. As per the police, one of the accused persons, identified as Sunnapalli Neelayya, hailing from Srikakulam district in Andhra Pradesh and currently residing in Sandhakuda area of Paradip, has been arrested in connection with this case. However, two other associates of Neelayya managed to flee from the scene, and efforts are underway to apprehend them along with the suspected mastermind behind this illegal operation, as stated by the police.

Preliminary investigations have revealed that the illegal trafficking network was functioning through unauthorised exchanges of various suspicious commodities such as fuel, pre-activated SIM cards, meat supplies, vegetables, liquor, narcotic substances, and possible cash transactions. The police have stated that they are looking into all possible angles, including organised crime and maritime security concerns, while investigating this incident. They also mentioned that this seizure has exposed an organised illegal supply chain that operates through maritime routes and unauthorised dealings with ships in deep-sea zones.

The investigation is still ongoing, with the aim of identifying the larger network, tracking financial transactions, and determining the involvement of other individuals connected to this racket. The Odisha Police has also highlighted that this is a significant development in their efforts to combat illegal activities in the state. As Odisha's No.1 English daily, we urge our readers to stay informed and vigilant against such unlawful actions that can harm the safety and security of our coastal areas.

Let us continue to support the authorities in their fight against organised crime and ensure a safer future for our communities.