Keonjhar Police Bust 16-Member Interstate Transformer Theft Ring

Keonjhar police in Odisha announced the arrest of a 16‑member gang suspected of orchestrating thefts of high‑value electrical transformers from multiple states. The operation, carried out after a weeks‑long investigation, resulted in the seizure of several stolen units and related equipment.
According to a police spokesperson, the suspects had been moving the stolen transformers across state lines, exploiting gaps in monitoring and selling the assets on the black market. The raid was conducted in coordination with law‑enforcement agencies from neighboring states, underscoring the interstate nature of the crime.
Authorities said the arrests will help curb illegal trafficking of power infrastructure, which has been a growing concern for utilities and consumers alike. Further inquiries are underway to trace the buyers and recover additional stolen assets.
The police have filed charges under the Indian Penal Code and relevant sections of the Electricity Act, and the accused will appear before a court in Keonjhar in the coming days.