Sambalpur: In a major crackdown on narcotics trafficking, Sambalpur Police arrested six persons and seized 1,200 bottles of codeine-based cough syrup during a special operation near Singhpali under the Ainthapali police station limits in Sambalpur district on Wednesday.
Acting on credible intelligence, police intercepted a vehicle and an unregistered electric scooter used for transporting the contraband, leading to the arrest of the accused, all of whom are residents of Sambalpur district.
The arrested persons have been identified as Chandan Behera (25) of Kumkapale under Jamankira police station, Deepak Thethuar (28) of Baijamunda under Burla police station, Suraj Munda (28) of Kumkupali under Jamankira police station, Pintu Munda (34) of Samapada under Jamankira police station, Kanha Behera (28) of Baijamunda under Burla police station, and Manas Besan (26) of Khulia under Sasan police station.
According to police, the operation was carried out on June 30, 2026, following specific information about the transportation of illegal cough syrup in the Singhpali area. A police team conducted a raid and intercepted the suspects while they were allegedly moving the contraband consignment.
During the search, police seized 1,200 bottles (100 ml each) of WINCEREX cough syrup containing codeine phosphate and triprolidine hydrochloride, packed in 10 cartons. They also recovered one SUV, one unregistered electric scooter, seven mobile phones, and Rs 5,540 in cash from their possession.
Preliminary investigation suggests that the consignment was procured from Kolkata and was being transported for illegal distribution in Sambalpur and adjoining areas. Police suspect the accused were part of an organised interstate network involved in the illicit supply of codeine-based cough syrup for intoxicating use.
Further investigation is underway to trace the wider supply chain, identify the source of procurement, and establish financial links and other members of the syndicate involved in the racket.
