Odisha Police Arrest Notorious Criminal, Invoke NSA; Bust Major Ganja Racket in Koraput

In a major crackdown on organised crime, Odisha Police arrested a notorious criminal and invoked the National Security Act (NSA) against him, while simultaneously dismantling a large ganja smuggling network in Koraput district, officials said on Wednesday.

Five persons, including the wanted trafficker, were taken into custody during the operation, which also led to the seizure of two pistols and 350 kg of cannabis.

The key accused, identified as Hrudananda Nayak alias Prince (35), a resident of Umri under Jeypore Sadar police station limits, was booked under the NSA for his involvement in multiple serious offences. According to police, Nayak was wanted in 17 criminal cases, including extortion, dacoity, and violations of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.

Police said the arrest and subsequent seizure mark a significant step toward curbing narcotics trafficking and criminal activity in the region. Further investigation is underway to trace the wider network behind the smuggling racket.