Koraput: To tackle rising criminal activities in Jeypore town and adjoining areas under Sadar police limits, Koraput district police on Tuesday introduced a dedicated extortion helpline +919438916918. The move aims to offer residents a secure channel to report cases of criminal intimidation and unlawful demands without fear.SP (Koraput) Rohit Verma said the helpline is part of the larger Jeypore against crime campaign operational since March 2025. “The helpline will be monitored by the SDPO, Jeypore, and citizens will be able to reach out directly to senior police officials. The identity of callers will be kept completely confidential to ensure their safety,” the SP said.Police have put in place a multi-pronged strategy aimed at curbing crime and restoring public order in the town. Key components of the plan include tracking and prosecuting repeat offenders, especially those violating bail conditions, special drives to nab absconders, with dedicated teams deployed to initiate legal proceedings, including proclamation, surveillance and legal action against habitual criminals, with history sheets being maintained for each, focused crackdown on NDPS cases, alongside efforts to attach illegally acquired properties and technology-led policing, including restoration of non-functional CCTV cameras and installation of new ones in blind spots.Additionally, vehicular checks and night patrols have been ramped up, with a focus on identifying anti-social elements while ensuring minimal inconvenience to law-abiding citizens, the SP said. The intensified policing have yielded tangible results. Since March, police have arrested 81 criminals involved in crimes ranging from property theft to drug peddling and extortion. Seizures made during this period include 30 two-wheelers, 22 mobile phones, and Rs 6.75 lakh cash, 2,501 kg of ganja, 585 ampules of narcotic injections, one country-made pistol, a tractor, several gold ornaments, and vehicles used in crime, including cars and a truck.“We have adopted a zero-tolerance approach towards crime and are committed to making Jeypore a crime-free town. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of the district police, several criminals have been caught in recent times. The helpline empowers people to actively participate in this mission,” said DIG (South-Western Range) Kanwar Vishal Singh.
