Bhubaneswar: The Special Task Force (STF) of Odisha Police today seized 11 grams of brown sugar and arrested an alleged drug peddler from the capital city. The accused has been identified as Bhagaban Yadav, a long-time supplier in Bhubaneswar.
Acting on a tip-off, STF personnel carried out a surprise raid and apprehended Yadav, who was reportedly active in the Bani Vihar, Sahid Nagar, Patia, and Railway Station areas. Police also seized a mobile phone from his possession, which is expected to provide crucial leads about his suppliers and customers.
Preliminary investigation suggests that Yadav has been involved in the brown sugar trade in Bhubaneswar for several years. With the festive season of Dussehra approaching, police sources said drug dealers often try to expand their activities, prompting STF to intensify surveillance and crackdowns.
An STF official said that efforts are underway to trace the larger supply network and identify other individuals connected with the racket. The accused has been booked under the NDPS Act and further investigation is in progress.
