Bhubaneswar, Jan 16: In two separate anti-narcotics operations, police and excise officials in Odisha have arrested three persons and seized large quantities of brown sugar along with motorcycles, officials said on Friday.

Two arrested in Bhubaneswar drug raid
In Bhubaneswar, a special team of Khandagiri police station carried out a surprise raid near the Baramunda cremation ground and arrested two youths allegedly involved in the sale of brown sugar. Police seized 29.36 grams of brown sugar and a racing motorcycle from their possession.

The arrested accused were identified as Bubun Sethi and his associate Swayam SS Sahu. According to police, the duo had allegedly been involved in drug trafficking for a long period. They were reportedly selling brown sugar in various residential localities and often fled the spot on high-speed racing bikes before police could reach them.

The surprise raid near Baramunda led to their arrest, police said. Further investigation is underway to ascertain the source of the contraband and possible links to a wider drug network.

Excise department seizes 165 grams in Balasore
Meanwhile, the Excise Department achieved a breakthrough in Balasore district, where a joint team from Bhograi and Jaleswar excise units arrested a youth with 165 grams of brown sugar during a late-night operation on Thursday.

The accused was identified as Bijay Sahu. Officials said the seizure was made while he was allegedly selling the contraband in Santeghari village. A Honda Unicorn motorcycle used in the operation was also seized.

Excise officials said the seized brown sugar has an estimated market value of over Rs 16 lakh. The accused was reportedly bringing the contraband from West Bengal before being intercepted.

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Authorities said legal proceedings have been initiated in both cases, and investigations are continuing to identify suppliers and other individuals involved.