Police arrested an extortion gang of four members in Bhanjanagar, Ganjam. The accused were threatening travelers at gunpoint near Malasapadar village to extort money. When police arrived at the spot, the criminals pointed guns at the officers, but were eventually overpowered. Two country-made pistols and live ammunition were seized from the arrested individuals. https://otvkhabar.in/crime/police-bust-extortion-gang-in-bhanjanagar-4-arrested-illegal-pistols-live-bullets-seized-12144284

The United States has launched major military strikes against Iran in response to attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. US forces targeted Iranian air defense systems, missile sites, and drone launch facilities in Port of Sirik and Qeshm Island. This action follows Iran's drone attacks on Qatari and Saudi Arabian tankers. In addition to military action, the US has revoked all oil trade waivers and imposed significant financial sanctions on Iran, citing violations of ceasefire agreements. https://otvkhabar.in/international/us-launches-fresh-strikes-on-iran-after-strait-of-hormuz-escalation-12144385

A speeding car rammed into the security barricades at the Odisha Legislative Assembly premises in Bhubaneswar late at night. The impact caused significant damage to the barricades, putting security personnel on high alert. Police have arrested two individuals suspected of being intoxicated during the incident. The vehicle has been seized, and an investigation is underway to determine if there was any ulterior motive behind breaching the high-security zone. https://odishasambad.in/high-alert-at-odisha-assembly-after-drunk-driver-rams-barricade/

A speeding motorcycle hit two pedestrians on the Biju Expressway near Badabahal in Sundargarh late last night. The impact was so severe that the rider and both pedestrians sustained critical injuries. Bhashma Police quickly arrived at the scene and transported all three victims to the Sundargarh District Headquarters Hospital for treatment. The accident reportedly occurred due to the reckless and high-speed driving of the motorcyclist. https://sambad.in/district/sundargarh/a-bike-hit-two-pedestrians-and-met-with-an-accident-12144327

A man has been arrested by Bhadrak Town Police for allegedly raping his minor niece. The incident took place during the Raja festival when the accused took advantage of the victim being alone at home. After the victim's family returned, she narrated her ordeal, leading to a police complaint. The police registered a case and arrested the accused uncle last night. https://sambad.in/district/bhadrak/uncle-arrested-in-minor-rape-case-12144384

The water level of the Mahanadi River is rising following heavy rains and the influx of water from the Tel River at Sonepur. Consequently, the Hirakud Dam authorities have decided to release the season's first floodwater tomorrow. The floodwater is expected to reach Subarnapur district by the 10th, potentially leading to a further rise in the river's water level in that region. https://otvkhabar.in/odisha/mahanadi-water-level-rising-first-floodwater-release-from-hirakud-reservoir-tomorrow-12144355

Indian cricketer Prithvi Shaw is embroiled in a controversy after his fiancée Akriti leveled serious allegations against him on social media. The incident has reportedly led to their engagement being called off, raising concerns about the impact on Shaw's professional cricket career. The social media post has sparked widespread curiosity and questions regarding the sudden rift in their relationship. https://sambad.in/video/prithvi-shaw-controversy-12144304

The Deputy Director of Mines in Jeypore, Satyajit Raut, was caught red-handed by the Vigilance department while accepting a bribe of ₹2 lakh to extend a sand lease. Following his arrest, simultaneous raids were conducted at four locations including Jeypore, Rayagada, and Cuttack. So far, a total of ₹4.90 lakh in cash has been seized, and investigation into disproportionate assets is ongoing. Raut reportedly has prior allegations of facilitating illegal sand transportation. https://argusnews.in/odisha/mining-deputy-director-caught-taking-rs-2-lakh-bribe-vigilance

The FBI, in coordination with US and Canadian authorities, launched 'Operation Hardball' targeting the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. Over 50 locations were raided, and 24 individuals were arrested on charges of murder, extortion, and drug trafficking. The US Department of Justice linked Bishnoi and Goldy Brar to the conspiracy behind Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar's murder. The operation also targeted international drug networks operated by Jaggu Bhagwanpuria and Ravinder Singh Dhanda across the US, Canada, Mexico, and beyond. https://sambad.in/crime/operation-hardball-lawrence-bishnoi-gang-hardeep-nijjar-murder-24-arrested-12144288

India suffered a record 125-run defeat against England in the second T20 match. Chasing a target of 202, the Shreyas Iyer-led Indian side collapsed for just 76 runs in 11.4 overs. Six Indian batters failed to reach double digits as Jofra Archer dismantled the lineup. With this massive win, England now leads the five-match series 2-0. This marks the fourth consecutive loss for India under the new captaincy of Shreyas Iyer. https://otvkhabar.in/sports/india-suffer-record-125-run-t20-defeat-to-england-trail-series-2-0-12144300