Excise Raid / Three Arrested in Sikharchandi Brown Sugar Bust, Autorickshaw Confiscated

Bhubaneswar, Jul 29: Bhubaneswar witnessed a major enforcement action on Wednesday, highlighting the authorities’ intensified crackdown on illegal activities.

Excise Station‑2 conducted a raid in the Sikharchandi area, seizing 119 grams of brown sugar and arresting three accused. An autorickshaw used in the illegal trade was also confiscated.

Officials confirmed that investigations are underway to trace the broader network linked to narcotics trafficking.

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The Excise Department has intensified surveillance in the capital city, aiming to dismantle drug cartels and curb the rising menace of brown sugar smuggling.

Illegal Soil Transportation

Meanwhile, on Tuesday, the Mining Department carried out a surprise raid in Chikiti of Ganjam district following reports of illegal soil transportation. Three tractors loaded with soil were seized, while a JCB machine allegedly used for excavation fled the scene upon learning of the raid.

The soil was reportedly being extracted from Narayanpur hills under Patrapur tehsil and transported to a nearby pond near Kelua Baghi river.

Local residents gathered at the site, leading to a brief commotion. To maintain order, the Mining Department immediately informed Jarada police, who arrived and took custody of the seized tractors, keeping them at the police station.

A case has been registered, and investigations are ongoing to identify those involved in the illegal operation.

Authorities noted that Patrapur tehsil has witnessed repeated complaints of illegal extraction and transportation of soil, sand, morrum, and stone.

The latest raid underscores the department’s resolve to curb such practices, which not only cause environmental damage but also result in significant revenue loss to the state.