Bhubaneswar, June 17: With the Lord Jagannath's Rath Yatra approaching fast, authorities have intensified crime-control measures with a special drive targeting illegal activities.

In a major breakthrough, the Government Railway Police (GRP) intercepted a significant consignment of ganja being smuggled from Bhubaneswar to Delhi, leading to the seizure of 51 kilograms of the contraband and the arrest of three individuals.

The illegal transport was being carried out discreetly, with the narcotics concealed in suitcases and strapped to the bodies of smugglers, officials revealed. The smuggling operation was reportedly taking place through exit routes of the railway station.

To curb the rising menace of drug trafficking, Special Armed Police (SRP) has issued directives for plainclothes officers and personnel across railway police stations in Puri, Berhampur, Khurda, Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Jajpur, Bhadrak, and Balasore. These officers will actively conduct surveillance and crack down on illicit operations ahead of the grand festival.

Officials emphasized that this operation aims to ensure a safe and secure environment for devotees and visitors participating in the Rath Yatra. Further investigations are underway to uncover the larger network involved in the illegal trade.

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