Illegal narcotics trade: Police put up ‘latka’ at house of an absconding accused in Bhubaneswar

Commissionerate Police on Monday put up a 'latka' (proclamation notice) outside the residence of accused Lokanath Samal in Nageswar Tangi, Bhubaneswar, accompanied by the traditional beating of drums to announce the legal action initiated against him. 

Lokanath Samal, son of Surendra Samal of Gautam Nagar, has been absconding since a warrant was issued in connection with an illegal narcotics case.

As per reports, the Special Judge-cum-Sessions Judge, Gajapati, Paralakhemundi, had issued a Non-Bailable Warrant (NBW) against Lokanath Samal after he failed to depose before the court. The court later issued a proclamation warning that if Samal does not present himself before the court within 30 days, the process to confiscate his property will begin.

Accused Allegedly Involved Since 2012

The case dates back to 2012, when Lokanath Samal was allegedly linked to illegal liquor and ganja trade. A warrant was issued against him in 2013 by the Paralakhemundi court. However, he remained untraceable since then, prompting legal authorities to escalate the matter by invoking property attachment provisions under the Criminal Procedure Code.

Mother Claims Innocence of Accused

Reacting to the development, Lokanath’s mother stated, “I cannot say where my son is now. He does not always respond to his phone either, and gets upset with me when I call. My son is completely innocent; it was his vehicle that was used for transporting illegal intoxicating substances. He was never involved in the illegal activities, as per the allegations, he was framed. I do not know why he is not saying anything related to this to the court. I even offered him that I would give his statement on his behalf, he only has to accompany, but he does not listen.”

Police have made public announcements using drums and posted the official notice outside the accused’s residence today.