In a major breakthrough,Dhenkanal Town Policearrested four members of aBanjara dacoit gang, believed to be responsible for a series of house thefts across the town. The accused, all natives of Bihar, were apprehended following intelligence-based raids on Tuesday.
During the operation, police seizedgold ornaments worth around Rs 35 lakh, silver jewellery valued at approximately Rs 1.5 lakh, and about15 kilograms of ganjafrom their possession. Investigators revealed that the gang targeted homes by scouting localities during the day under the pretext of selling toys, then breaking into houses at night to steal valuables.
According toDhenkanal Additional SP Suryamani Pradhan, the gang resided temporarily in polythene sheet-thatched houses on the outskirts of town and moved frequently, staying 5–7 days in one location before relocating. Police are continuing the probe to uncover possible links with other criminal networks and verify the gang’s involvement in similar cases across the region.
Authorities said the arrests are part of ongoing efforts to curb organised crime and ensure public safety in Dhenkanal district.
