The Excise Department has dealt a major blow to drug trafficking in Bhadrak and Balasore, arresting three smugglers and seizing over 200 grams of brown sugar.
The operations unfolded across three locations:
Bhadrak (NH-16): A mobile patrolling team intercepted a youth at Nalang Chowk. They seized 45 grams of brown sugar and a motorcycle. The contraband is valued at approximately ₹4.5 lakh.
Balasore (Coastal Raids): Acting on tip-offs, officials raided two beach locations. They recovered 90 grams from Talasari and 70 grams from Udaipur.
Two traders were arrested, and their bike was seized. The total market value of the Balasore haul is estimated at ₹16 lakh.
The arrested individuals hail from the Dhamnagar and Bhograi areas. These successful raids highlight the department's intensified vigil along the National Highway and coastal corridors.
All seized narcotics and vehicles are currently in custody as investigations continue into the wider supply network.