Crime News

According to police, the network used multiple bank accounts to route and transfer funds obtained through fraudulent digital transactions, making it difficult to trace the source of the money. The investigation is continuing, with police working to identify other individuals connected to the network and determine the full extent of the financial fraud. The arrests mark a significant step in the ongoing efforts to tackle cybercrime and prevent the misuse of bank accounts for fraudulent financial activities.

: In a major crackdown, Balangir Police busted an interstate drug racket that was using the e-commerce platform as a cover to smuggle ganja. Police said the accused were smuggling ganja to other states through e-commerce parcels. The racket has been busted and the accused involved in the case has been arrested and forwarded to court, while investigation is underway to nab other members of the network. Acting on a tip-off, Balangir Police conducted raids at various places and exposed the racket. The accused were tightly packing ganja using e-commerce delivery boxes and tapes to avoid suspicion during checking. Preliminary investigation revealed that the accused were procuring ganja at a low price from local areas and selling it at a high price outside the state by showing it as online orders.

Police said 10 people, including alleged kingpin Geetanjali Bag (37), have been arrested and forwarded to court. Several women were rescued and placed under protective arrangements. The breakthrough began with a far more disturbing complaint. A minor girl from neighbouring Baragada district was allegedly forced into sexual exploitation. After a medical examination showed she was about seven months pregnant, the SP ordered a sweep of suspected locations in Balangir. Two cases were registered at Adarsha police station and Laxmijora police station under Sections 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 of the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, 1956. Bag is also named in Town police station Case No. 367/2026, police said at a press conference at the district police headquarters.