Bhubaneswar: Odisha Police launched a state-wide crackdown on illegal narcotics under Operation Prahaar, aimed at curbing the drug menace and making the state drug-free. The drive, initiated on government directives, involves coordinated action across all districts.
The week-long drive, held from September 1 to 7, led to 110 cases being registered and 157 arrests in drug-related offenses. During the operation, police seized 4,808 kg of ganja in 72 cases, arresting 93 people. In a major strike on synthetic drugs, 2,374 grams of brown sugar were seized in 27 cases, leading to 45 arrests.
Additionally, 3,052 bottles of cough syrup, often misused as narcotics, were seized, and 19 people were arrested for illegal possession and transport. Legal action under Section 129 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) has been initiated against 70 individuals, while three shops directly linked to the illegal drug trade were sealed.
A senior police official said, “Operation Prahaar is a dedicated effort to dismantle the network of illegal drug distribution in Odisha. We are committed to protecting our youth and society from the harmful effects of narcotics.” The operation underscores the state’s zero-tolerance policy towards drug abuse and trafficking.
Odisha Police have urged citizens to share information on drug peddling and assured that strict action will continue against offenders in the coming weeks.
