The seizure was so substantial that it required a convoy of 17 mini-trucks, tractor-trollies, and pick-up vans to transport the contraband to police custody.
Raids Conducted on Tip-Off
Acting on a specific tip-off regarding the illegal storage of firecrackers in unsafe conditions, joint teams conducted simultaneous raids. The operation led to the busting of two godowns rented by Vicky Tekriwal (35) and a residential premises rented by Natwar Agarwal (41).
Legal Action Initiated
Police have registered two cases against Tekriwal and one case against Agarwal. The charges have been filed under:
- Section 288 of the BNS (Negligent conduct with respect to explosive substances)
- Section 9(B)(1)(b) of The Indian Explosive Act
- Section 5 of The Orissa Fireworks and Loudspeaker Regulation Act
Both individuals were served notices and released as per the provisions of the law.
Part of State-Wide "Operation Agni"
Sundargarh SP Amritpal Kaur stated that these raids were executed under the umbrella of "Operation Agni," a state-wide drive targeting the illegal storage, transportation, and sale of explosives and firecrackers. This operation has seen significant success across Odisha.
Lucrative Illegal Trade
A police official associated with the raids revealed that the accused had procured the firecrackers from Raipur in Chhattisgarh, targeting the lucrative Diwali festival market. The seized contraband had an estimated retail market value between ₹1.80 crore and ₹2.25 crore.
Given that Birmitrapur is a small town with a population of around 35,000, police suspect that the accused were aiming to supply the larger market in the industrial city of Rourkela.
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