Orissa Police seize 18 tons of silver in Puri

Puri (Orissa), Feb.27 (ANI): Orissa Police has seized 18 tons of silver bricks in Puri from the ancient Emar Mutt located in front of the 12th century Sri Jagannath Temple.

The incident came to light when some of the masons employed by the Orissa State Archaeology Department were engaged in repairing and renovation work of the ancient Emar Mutt.

"These bricks have been preserved for the progress of the Jagannath temple and for the shelter home and this should be used for the beautification of the Jagannath temple," said Ramesh Prasad Singh, a local resident.

Around 522 pieces of silver bricks were found in three huge wooden boxes which some labourers stumbled upon.

The recovery exercise is still in progress, claimed S.K Swain, Deputy Commissioner of the State Endowment Commission.

The bricks bear embossed seals of Japan, China, Dubai and United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The Jagannath temple is among the most sacred Hindu shrines in India and is visited by over a million people during the famous annual 'Rath Yatra' or Chariot festival. (ANI)