In a major crackdown against the rising narcotics trade, Khordha Industrial Police seized 320 grams of brown sugar worth over Rs32 lakh and arrested two individuals, dealing a heavy blow to drug peddlers operating in the region.
The meticulously executed operation, led by Sub-Inspector Sunita Behera, was based on a tip-off regarding a drug transaction in the Kumarabasta area near Gurujang Dwarika Nagar. Acting swiftly, SI Behera formed a special team, along with two government-appointed witnesses, and tracked a suspect near Tangiapada Duari Temple.
The suspect, wearing a black T-shirt and half-pants, was identified as Bishwa Ranjan Rautray. Upon search, police found a white box containing brown sugar and transparent polythene packets. Further inspection led to the seizure of a mobile phone, a scooter (OD02DB3163), a blue Pulsar motorcycle (OD02DC8636), and drug paraphernalia.
A second individual involved in the case was also arrested. Both suspects have been booked under Sections 21(c) and 29 of the NDPS Act. The case has been registered as Khordha Industrial PS Case No. 177, dated July 28, 2025.
During a press conference, SP Sagarika Nath confirmed the arrests and highlighted the rising threat of brown sugar peddling, especially in Khordha town and surrounding rural belts, where some operations are allegedly run from inside jail premises.
SP Nath noted that in the last three months, police have seized 782 grams of brown sugar and arrested 30 peddlers. The Excise Department has also intensified efforts, with recent drug seizures valued at Rs15 lakh, Rs25 lakh, and now Rs32 lakh, signalling a unified crackdown on drug networks.
The police vowed continued action, with more arrests expected as the investigation progresses.
