Odisha: Balasore SP Raj Prasad’s crackdown keeps land, sand, and drug mafia in check
By Sudam Kumar Patra
Bhubaneswar, March 6: Balasore, a strategically located district in northern Odisha bordering West Bengal, has long been known for its rich cultural and literary heritage. The land of luminaries like Fakir Mohan Senapati, Radhanath Roy, Manoj Das, and Manmath Nath Das, however, has recently gained notoriety for a different reason—the unchecked rise of land, sand, and drug mafias.
For years, these illegal networks operated with impunity, disrupting lives and the region’s peace. But under the leadership of Balasore Superintendent of Police (SP) Raj Prasad, a rigorous crackdown has been initiated, making life difficult for the mafia elements and restoring law and order.
A Tactical Approach to Crime Control
Recognising the depth of the problem, SP Raj Prasad and his team devised a comprehensive strategy to tackle these illegal operations. “The Balasore police have a complete database of anti-social elements, and we maintain constant surveillance over their activities. Our strict monitoring and swift action have significantly improved law and order in the district,” said SP Raj Prasad.
Crushing the Sand Mafia
Illegal sand mining has been a major concern in Balasore, with mafias extracting thousands of truckloads of sand from the Subarnarekha, Budhabalanga, Jalaka, Kansabansa, and Sono rivers and transporting them to West Bengal and beyond. Reports indicate that corrupt officials have often colluded with these mafias, turning a blind eye to their illicit activities. However, with intensified police monitoring and enforcement, illegal sand lifting has drastically reduced in recent months.
War on Drug Trafficking
Drug peddlers from Bangladesh and West Bengal had long considered Balasore a safe haven. However, under SP Raj Prasad’s leadership, the district police have conducted relentless raids, seizing large quantities of contraband and dismantling key supply networks. These actions have sent a strong message that Balasore will no longer be a hub for illegal drug activities.
Land Mafia on the Run
The land mafia, notorious for encroaching government lands—including grazing fields and burial grounds—used to operate mostly under cover of darkness. Using heavy machinery, they would illegally excavate soil from government lands and sell it at exorbitant prices. However, a strong police clampdown has forced these groups to retreat, leading to a noticeable decline in such activities.
Public Response and the Road Ahead
The crackdown on organized crime in Balasore has been widely appreciated by residents. With sustained efforts and community cooperation, authorities hope to eliminate mafia activities completely and restore the district’s former glory.
“SP Raj Prasad’s proactive approach serves as a model for law enforcement agencies across the country, demonstrating how determination, strategic planning, and strict action can curb crime and safeguard public interest,” said Sasmita Mishra, a local resident.
