Puri Police prioritised the safety of devotees during the renowned Rath Yatra 2026 of Lord Jagannath. Extensive security measures were put in place to maintain public order and deter criminal activities, with particular focus on the influx of lakhs of participants in the festival. Under the guidance of Superintendent of Police Prateek Singh, a dedicated Anti-Snatching Team was established to address concerns of theft and snatching during this significant event.

The police deployment extended to various crowded areas, including the Grand Road (Bada Danda), around the Shree Jagannath Temple, bus stands, and the beach. Personnel in plain clothes executed continuous surveillance to monitor activities and ensure a swift response to any incidents. These strategic efforts were part of a comprehensive plan aimed at protecting attendees throughout the festivities.

Operational Successes and Recoveries

The extensive measures implemented by Puri Police yielded significant results, with 175 individuals allegedly involved in snatching arrested during the Rath Yatra period. Appropriate criminal cases were filed against all suspects, and they have been forwarded to the competent courts as per legal protocols. This initiative illustrates the department’s commitment to a zero-tolerance policy against organised street crime during major public events.

In addition to the arrests, an impressive total of 304 lost mobile phones were recovered during the operation. Valuable items, including gold jewellery, cash, wallets, identity documents, and other personal belongings, were also retrieved. The police are in the process of returning the recovered assets to their rightful owners, ensuring transparency and accountability in their actions.

A special event known as the “Missing Mobile Mela” facilitated the handover of numerous recovered phones to their respective owners. Citizens expressed gratitude for the efficiency and transparency demonstrated by the Puri Police in their efforts to return lost property, highlighting the successful implementation of technology and communication throughout the process.

Community Engagement and Technology Use

The effectiveness of the operation can be attributed to the careful application of technology, including CCTV surveillance, intelligence gathering, and quick response teams. The seamless collaboration among various police stations enabled the identification and swift apprehension of offenders. Furthermore, the strategic deployment of plain-clothes personnel contributed to increased surveillance and reduced the chances of snatching incidents occurring.

Puri Police encourages citizens who may have lost mobile phones and have not yet filed complaints to utilise the Puri Police “Sahayak” WhatsApp Chatbot at +91 87631 99400. This innovative solution allows individuals to easily register complaints and report lost devices online, bringing a user-friendly approach to community policing.

The achievements recorded during Rath Yatra 2026 exemplify Puri Police’s determination to combat criminal activities while adhering to a “Citizen First” philosophy. The successful recovery of lost personal belongings has significantly enhanced public trust in law enforcement, reinforcing the relationship between the police and the community they serve.

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