In a shocking incident of lawlessness, mining department officials were allegedly attacked by illegal morum (laterite soil) miners during a raid in Odisha’s Balasore district’s Kupari area.

According to reports, complaints had been received regarding the illegal transportation of morum in the region. Acting on the tip-off, Junior Mining Officer of Khaira, Abhishek Behera, along with two police personnel, proceeded to the site to conduct a raid, sources said on Saturday.

However, when the officials reached near Sundarpur Chhak, they were reportedly ambushed by members of the sand and morum mafia. The attackers allegedly pelted stones at the official vehicle, blocked its movement, and smashed its windshield during the assault.

In a bid to escape the violent situation, the mining officer managed to drive to Khaira Police Station for safety. Shockingly, the accused individuals followed the officials up to the police station premises and allegedly issued death threats before fleeing the scene.

The mining officer formally lodged a complaint at Khaira Police Station and informed senior authorities about the incident.

Following the attack, Junior Mining Officers from Nilgiri and Soro reportedly rushed to the spot to assess the situation and support the ongoing investigation.

Police have begun a probe into the incident, and efforts are underway to identify and apprehend those involved in the attack on government officials during official duty.

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The incident has raised serious concerns over the safety of enforcement officers and the growing influence of illegal mining networks in the region.