Berhampur: Acting on the recommendation of Berhampur Police, Ganjam District Magistrate Keerthi Vasan V, has ordered the preventive detention of alleged anti-social element Sagar Behera under the provisions of the National Security Act (NSA), 1980.

Sagar Behera detained over alleged threats to public order

The detention order was issued in NSA Case No. 01/2026 under Section 3(2) of the National Security Act after authorities concluded that Behera's activities posed a threat to public order and tranquillity.

Sagar Behera, 36, son of Dhoba Behera and a resident of Nandigaon village under Jarada Police Station limits, has been detained and lodged in Circle Jail, Berhampur. The order was executed by Jarada Police.

According to official sources, the District Magistrate issued the detention order after examining police reports, criminal case records, intelligence inputs, station diary entries and other relevant materials.

Authorities stated that Behera has a long criminal history spanning from 2011 to 2026, with multiple cases registered against him at Jarada and K. Nuagaon police stations. The cases include charges related to rioting, causing hurt, criminal intimidation, extortion, violent assaults, threatening individuals with deadly weapons, and violations of the Odisha Prevention of Gambling Act and Minor Minerals Rules.

Officials said the assessment revealed a consistent pattern of activities allegedly prejudicial to the maintenance of public order. The administration noted that the nature, gravity, frequency and continuity of the offences, coupled with the likelihood of repeated criminal conduct, made ordinary legal measures inadequate to prevent further disturbances.

As a result, preventive detention under the National Security Act was deemed necessary to safeguard public peace and security in the region.

Police records indicate that Sagar Behera is facing 11 criminal cases. He is currently lodged in Berhampur jail following the execution of the NSA detention order.

The district administration reiterated its commitment to maintaining law and order and taking stringent action against habitual offenders who threaten public safety and communal harmony.