Sambalpur Excise Team Busts Drug Syndicate; Over 2,400 Cough Syrup Bottles Seized
In a major crackdown on illegal drug trafficking, the Excise Department seized more than 2,400 bottles of banned cough syrup and around 1,000 intoxicant tablets from a pickup vehicle in Odisha’s Sambalpur district.
The operation led to the detention of one individual and exposed a suspected drug distribution network operating across western Odisha.
Acting on intelligence inputs, excise officials intensified surveillance following a recent seizure of cough syrup bottles by local police.
Teams from Redhakhol and Dhama monitored key routes and identified a suspicious pickup van transporting the contraband.
Officials attempted to intercept the vehicle near Redhakhol, but the driver allegedly tried to evade authorities, triggering a high-speed chase.
The vehicle was eventually stopped in Hatibari, where a thorough search uncovered more than 2,400 bottles of cough syrup along with approximately 1,000 Nitrazepam tablets.
According to Excise Deputy Superintendent Ashwini Kumar Mallick, the consignment originated from Jagatpur in Cuttack district and was destined for distribution in Sambalpur and Bargarh districts.
Preliminary investigations suggest the seized drugs were to be divided and supplied through local networks.
The detained driver is being questioned to identify other individuals involved in the operation.
The Excise Department has launched a detailed investigation to trace the source of the contraband, identify key suppliers, and dismantle the wider distribution network.
Officials have reiterated their commitment to curbing the illegal trade of narcotic and psychotropic substances across the state.
