Joint task force busts narcotics racket near Bhubaneswar educational institutions and malls

In a significant development, a joint raid by the Drug Controller and Special Task Force has exposed illegal narcotics trade near educational institutions and shopping malls in Bhubaneswar. 

As per reports, the special team detained several drug peddlers selling cannabis-laced cigarettes under brand names like Chamba, Gogo, and Baba in the capital city. 

During the operation in the Nayapalli area, narcotic substances were seized, and several individuals were detained for interrogation. 

Authorities confirmed that the 'Zero Tolerance' policy against drug abuse continues to be strictly enforced.

"We have issued notices to around 8-10 persons and imposed fines on them. We have also detained some individuals. Narcotic substances worth around Rs 20,000- Rs 30,00 have been seized so far. The raids will not stop today and it will continue in future as well. We will put up continuous effort to completely eradicate drugs. We also request the public to give us support so that we will be successful in our effort," said an official.

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"We are searching for chewing tobacco containing nicotine. We have created awareness not to smoke cigarettes at public places. Those smoking cigarettes at public places will be fined. We request all not to be engaged in illegal narcotics trade near educational institutions, otherwise they will be fined and all the necessary actions will be taken against them," he added.

"The raid is a continuous process and it will continue. On the basis of the direction of the Chief Minister to make the educational institutions drug free,  STF, Drug Controller and senior officials have conducted joint raids. Mainly, we are imposing fines on the drug traders near educational institutions and whenever required we are also detaining them," said another official.