Bhubaneswar, Jan 8: The Odisha Excise Department seized contraband worth Rs1.44 crore on the nineteenth day of its ongoing Special Enforcement Drive, which began on December 20. The drive, aimed at curbing illicit liquor and narcotics trade, has intensified across the state with significant recoveries reported, officials said.

According to official data, 279 cases were registered during the day’s operations, including 10 under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. A total of 178 persons were arrested, while 19 vehicles were seized in connection with the enforcement action.

The seizures included 13,477 bulk litres of illicitly distilled liquor and 400 bulk litres of duty-paid liquor. Other recoveries comprised 66,050 bulk litres of fermented wash, 58,300 kg of gur wash, and 182 kg of bhanga. Narcotics confiscated during the operations included 68 kg of ganja, 261 grams of brown sugar, and 150 litres of cough syrup.

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In addition, one case relating to the illegal cultivation of hemp plants was booked by the Excise unit in Deogarh, underscoring the department’s focus on tackling cultivation alongside trafficking.

Officials said the special drive has been designed to dismantle networks engaged in illicit liquor production and narcotics smuggling, while also deterring illegal cultivation. The department has adopted a multi-pronged approach, combining intelligence-based raids with strict enforcement measures.

The Excise Department has indicated that the drive will continue in the coming weeks, with further crackdowns expected. Authorities emphasised that sustained enforcement is crucial to safeguarding public health and ensuring compliance with excise laws across Odisha.