Odisha to Set Up 20 New Cyber Crime Police Stations
State-level workshop in Bhubaneswar kickstarts Odisha Police’s intensified campaign against growing cyber threats
In a strategic step to combat the growing challenge of cyber crimes, the Odisha government has approved the establishment of 20 new cyber crime and economic offence police stations across the state. This announcement was made by Director General of Police (DGP) Yogesh Bahadur Khurania during the inauguration of a state-level workshop on “Cyber Crime Investigation and Cyber Intelligence” held at the Cyber Complex in Bhubaneswar.
These specialized units will enhance the state’s ability to identify, investigate, and respond to a wide range of cyber offences — from online fraud and identity theft to financial scams and digital exploitation. DGP Khurania emphasized that these police stations will serve as a crucial foundation in fortifying Odisha’s cyber law enforcement framework.
Further, the DGP announced the state’s approval for the Odisha Cyber Command Center to be established in Bhubaneswar. This command center will act as a central node for cyber intelligence, enabling faster offender identification and swift assistance to victims. “It will be a cornerstone in our fight against invisible criminals,” Khurania said, highlighting the importance of modernizing the state’s digital infrastructure.
The workshop, conducted by the State Crime Branch, marks the launch of a larger initiative aimed at equipping police personnel with specialized knowledge and investigative tools to tackle cyber crime. Subsequent training sessions will be held at regional and district levels, involving officers from constables to senior ranks.
Addressing the gathering, the DGP underlined the urgency for continuous skill development to match the pace of evolving digital threats. “With technology advancing rapidly, our police must stay ahead to protect citizens from emerging forms of cyber crime,” he remarked.
Odisha has seen a sharp rise in cases such as online investment scams, phishing, digital arrests, and identity-based exploitation. In response, the police are not only investing in training but also running awareness campaigns to educate the public.
Renowned cyber expert Dr. Rakshit Tandon conducted the training, with participation from officers across the state. Senior officials including DG (CID, CB) Vinaytosh Mishra, IG Dr. Sarthak Sarangi, and DIG (STF) Pinak Mishra were present, with Mishra delivering the welcome address and vote of thanks.
Concluding the event, DGP Khurania urged officers to implement their training in the field, reaffirming the Odisha Police’s commitment to protecting its citizens in the digital era.
