Bhubaneswar, Feb 21: Odisha is witnessing a sharp rise in brown sugar trafficking, with alarming figures tabled in the State Assembly pointing to the state’s growing vulnerability to narcotics. Districts such as Balasore, Puri, Jagatsinghpur and State Capital Bhubaneswar have emerged as major hubs for the illicit trade, according to data presented by Excise Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan in response to a question raised by BJD legislator Prashant Behera on Saturday.

Also Read: Odisha to Ditch Glass Liquor Bottles for Tetra Packs

Between 2025 and February 2026, authorities seized 40 kg 278 grams of brown sugar and arrested 481 individuals. This marks a significant increase compared to previous years: 28 kg 575 grams seized with 361 arrests in 2024–25; 34 kg 426 grams seized with 448 arrests in 2023–24; and 32 kg 826 grams seized with 382 arrests in 2022–23.

Officials noted that the consistent rise in seizures and arrests reflects both intensified enforcement and the expanding scale of the narcotics trade. The Assembly discussion highlighted the urgent need for stronger measures to curb trafficking, particularly in districts that have become hotspots.

Also Read: Odisha to Ditch Glass Liquor Bottles for Tetra Packs

Three Notorious Brown Sugar Peddlers Arrested in Bhubaneswar

In a separate development, the Special Crime Unit today arrested three notorious brown sugar peddlers from Acharya Vihar area in Bhubaneswar. The accused - Sameer Khan, Sekh Irshaf Mohammad, and Muna Khan - were allegedly sourcing the contraband from Jaleswar in Balasore district and selling it in the capital.

Authorities seized 370 grams of brown sugar, three motorcycles, four mobile phones, and cash from their possession. The arrests underline the growing reach of the narcotics trade from coastal districts into urban centres.