Joda: The illegal trade in addiction causing drugs is increasing in the Joda town of Keonjhar district as the police and drugs controlling authorities have failed to curb the illicit trade.
A gang is said be active in the area, and it has been supplying addictive drugs from other states.
Conscious citizens said that traders find Joda town a safe haven for drug peddling. Things have gone to such an extent that addictive drugs are even sold by betel shops, grocery shops, tea stalls and on the streets.
It is learnt that addictive drugs like Nitrazipam-10 are brought from Jharkhand to Joda. A youth said that popping such pills gives users more kick than alcohol, cannabis and other addictive substances. These medicines are sold at a premium price at various places in the town.
Some traders are pushing fake Corex syrup to earn big bucks. Some years ago, police had busted a racket that was preparing fake Corex syrup.
Due to lack of monitoring by drug inspectors medical stores are also selling these medicines without prescriptions.
Now, a large number of youths, truck and dumper drivers buy addictive medicines. After consuming addictive drugs, drivers are causing accidents.
Many organisations and the public have demanded stern action against the traders.
Joda IIC Bijaykrushna Mohapatra said that several measures have been taken to curb drug abuse. Around 12 people have been arrested and patrolling police parties have been told to keep a tab on illegal activities in all areas of the town.
PNN
