TV
In a coordinated operation across Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, officials from the Special Task Force (STF) and Drugs Control Department seized cough syrup worth over Rs 1 crore. The large-scale crackdown on Thursday targeted multiple locations suspected of unlawfully distributing the medicines.
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According to sources, in a major blow to the illegal pharmaceutical trade, Odisha Crime Branch’s Special Task Force (STF) in collaboration with the state Drugs Control Department conducted surprise raids across Bhubaneswar-Cuttack twin cities. The massive and joint operation resulted in the seizure of banned and unlicensed cough syrups.
Authorities confirmed that multiple premises were searched as part of a wider effort to dismantle an emerging drug network in Odisha. The confiscated syrups are suspected to have been intended for unauthorised sale and potentially abusive consumption.
Further probes are underway to trace the supply sources and involved individuals.
The major crackdown signals an intensified effort by law enforcement to combat drug-related crimes in urban hubs. Officials have vowed to continue such operations and issue strict warnings to those involved in pharmaceutical malpractice.
“One person has been detained in this connection, and a detailed probe is underway. The seized cough syrup bottles were to be supplied to different locations. Acting on a tip-off, the STF team conducted raids leading to the seizure,” a Crime Branch official said.
“The cough syrup bottles packed in large sacks were to be sent through a courier firm. We are probing to find out inter-state links, if any,” the senior official added.
