In a decisive move against rising drug trafficking along the national highway, Bharatpur and Infovalley police have arrested five individuals and seized over 35 grams of brown sugar (heroin), along with cash and motorcycles, during two coordinated operations.
The raids reveal a concerning increase in illegal brown sugar movement from Khordha to Bhubaneswar and its surrounding areas.
Bharatpur Police Operation
On the night of 13-14 February, a special Bharatpur police team raided a secluded location behind Nature Park in GI Colony, apprehending two peddlers — Kartik Das and Laxmi Das. Authorities recovered 12.92 grams of brown sugar, cash, and a motorcycle.
During questioning, the duo admitted to sourcing the drug from a woman identified as “Rami” in Bharatpur. Police immediately registered a case and sent both to judicial custody.
Following this, officers arrested the alleged supplier, Sumitra Nayak, also known as Rami or Sumi, from her residence on Monday. Authorities confiscated Rs7,100 from her, and she admitted to supplying the narcotic to the arrested peddlers. She has been forwarded to court.
Infovalley Police Operation
In a separate action, Infovalley police apprehended Santosh Parida and Rajendra Behera, who were transporting 22 grams of brown sugar from Khordha to Paniora. A motorcycle used in the operation was also seized.
Both confessed to regular involvement in the trade. Police have registered a fresh case, and the duo has been sent to judicial custody. Investigations are ongoing.
Senior officers emphasized that the national highway has become a preferred route for drug peddlers and assured continued strict action against narcotics trafficking in the capital region.
