Bargarh: In an intensified drive to curb rising criminal activities and drug smuggling, Bargarh Police on Monday carried out simultaneous raids across multiple locations in the district, leading to major seizures and multiple arrests.
During the operation, police seized 1,500 bottles of cough syrup, five country-made guns, 20 live bullets, three unexploded cartridges, 16 mobile phones, five four-wheeler vehicles, and cash amounting to ₹57,200. A total of 15 accused persons were arrested in connection with the illegal activities.
According to police, the arrested individuals include three from Chhattisgarh, eight from Bargarh district, and one each from Cuttack, Balangir, Bhadrak, and Jagatsinghpur. The accused were allegedly part of a network involved in smuggling cough syrup not only within Odisha but also across the border into Chhattisgarh.
Speaking at a press conference, Bargarh Superintendent of Police Prahallad Sahai Meena said that the raids were part of a special operation to dismantle networks engaged in illegal drug trade and arms possession.
“The police have intensified surveillance and operations to control crime in the district. Investigations are underway, and similar raids will continue in the coming days,” SP Meena stated.
The seizures mark a significant success for Bargarh Police in their ongoing efforts to combat cross-border smuggling and illegal trade in western Odisha.