Bhubaneswar, Dec 10: Odisha Police have launched an intensified and highly coordinated crackdown on the illegal smuggling and distribution of narcotic-laced cough syrup, a substance increasingly being misused as an intoxicant across several districts. In a sweeping operation carried out over the past few days, police teams registered 61 cases and seized a staggering 73,181 bottles of the contraband syrup, delivering a major blow to the statewide trafficking network. As many as 181 individuals have been arrested so far in connection with these seizures.

The Special Task Force (STF) in Bhubaneswar spearheaded the drive, seizing the largest single haul of 26,658 bottles. Western Odisha also witnessed extensive action—Sambalpur police seized 19,908 bottles across 13 cases, while Bargarh district reported 12,856 bottles in 17 cases. Balangir police recovered 5,468 bottles, followed by additional recoveries in Subarnapur, Boudh, and Sundargarh districts.

Arrests have been equally significant, with Sambalpur and Bargarh leading the tally. Director General of Police Yogesh Bahadur Khurania applauded the coordinated efforts, stating that the operations mark a crucial step in dismantling narcotics networks. He reiterated that such intensive enforcement drives will continue, ensuring strict action against all involved in the illegal trade.

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