In a major anti-narcotics operation, Paikmal police in Bargarh district arrested five individuals and seized 2,598 drug injections, marking a significant breakthrough against illegal drug trafficking in western Odisha.
Authorities also confiscated a Xylo car, a Bullet motorcycle, a scooter, and six mobile phones. Acting on a tip-off, police intercepted the suspects’ vehicle near Nishani Temple on the Padmapur–Paikmal stretch of the Biju Expressway. Reports indicate the group was transporting narcotics from Bhubaneswar and is linked to a larger drug network operating in the region.
This operation follows a recent major arrest by Paikmal police and underscores growing concerns over the proliferation of narcotics in rural areas. Locals expressed alarm over the rising presence of drugs, fearing an increase in antisocial activities. Community leaders have called for stronger enforcement measures and awareness campaigns to protect youth from addiction.
Police and excise officials said surveillance across Bargarh district has intensified, especially in border areas and key transit routes. The five arrested individuals were produced in court and remanded to judicial custody. Investigations are ongoing to trace the sources and distribution channels of the narcotics.
The bust demonstrates the administration’s firm commitment to dismantling drug networks and curbing substance abuse in western Odisha.
