Odisha cops introduce reward scheme for tip-off on illegal bomb-making units

BHUBANESWAR: In the after-math of the recent death of five people in two separate blasts during illegal prepa-ration of explosives in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, the commissionerate police ha-ve come up with a reward scheme with an intention to curb such unlawful activities.According to the officials, a cash prize of Rs 10,000 will be given to anyone providing credible information about illegal storage or manufacturing of explosives in the twin cities. "The scheme, valid until March 31, is designed to encourage public participation in rooting out hidden dangers in neighbourhoods," additional commissioner of po-lice Narasingha Bhol said.To make reporting easier, police have issued two dedi cated helpline numbers: 7077798111 for Bhubaneswar and 7328077324 for Cuttack. Officials emphasized that anonymity will be respected, hoping to reassure citizens who may fear retaliation.On Feb 19, three members of a family died in an explosion in their house under Jagatpur police station limits in Cuttack. On Jan 27, a cri-minal and his mother died and two others were injured while assembling bombs on the terrace of their house in the city's Airfield area.On Sunday, police organi-sed a rally in Cuttack city, seeking the support of the pub-lic in dismantling illegal firecrackers and explosive-making units. Through pla-cards, police personnel conveyed the message of the dangers and criminal liabili-ty linked to illegal manufac-turing and storage of explosives."Cracker blast is not just dangerous, but also shatters families and livelihoods. Be responsible," read a placard message.