Operation Thunder: Naka Checks and Crackdown Ramp Up

The Central Range Police have launched a large-scale enforcement drive titled Operation Thunder, targeting hardened criminals, illegal arms, drug trafficking, drunken driving, and illicit cattle transport across multiple districts. The operation was carried out through coordinated night-long naka blockades, vehicle inspections, and surprise patrolling under several police station limits.

According to official data, 1,611 vehicles were checked on 17 November 2025, resulting in ₹4,66,500 collected in fines across Puri, Cuttack, Kendrapara, Khordha, Nayagarh, and Jajpur districts. A total of 96 photographs documenting the enforcement activity were shared as proof by district police units.

High-Intensity Checks Across Districts

In Puri, police conducted extensive night checking drives, inspecting 278 vehicles and collecting ₹2,31,500 in fines. Visuals show officers stopping two-wheelers, autos, and cars, verifying documents, and searching vehicle trunks as part of crime-tracking initiatives.

Kendrapara reported the highest number of checks with 504 vehicles, supported by visible deployment both day and night. Officers were seen stopping motorcycles, conducting searches, and inspecting buses for suspicious movement.

In Khordha, multiple naka points—particularly on NH-16—recorded strict enforcement. Photos show barricades, breath analyser checks, and the detention of drunken driving offenders. 98 vehicles were checked, collecting ₹1,21,000 in fines.

Nayagarh conducted 548 checks, focusing on inter-district routes vulnerable to criminal movement, resulting in ₹80,000 in fine collection.

Jajpur authorities checked 165 vehicles, realising ₹12,000 in fines.

Crackdown on Criminal Activities

DIG, Central Range, stated that Operation Thunder aims to disrupt the movement of habitual offenders, intercept illegal activities, and enhance road safety. The operation includes:

• Seizure of illegal arms
• Action against drug trafficking
• Interception of illicit cattle transport
• Identification of inter-state and inter-district criminal networks
• Strict MV rule enforcement and drunken driving action

Officers across the range have been directed to maintain high alert, especially during late-night hours, and intensify surveillance at vulnerable road stretches.

Coordinated Policing Underway

The multi-district initiative reflects enhanced coordination within the Central Range, with police stations working jointly at key checkpoints and strategic corridors. The night-long visuals and data highlight the scale of the crackdown, indicating that such operations will continue in the coming days.