Bhubaneswar, Sept 5: In a sweeping crackdown on illegal liquor and narcotics, the Odisha Excise Department arrested 511 individuals during a four-day statewide operation conducted from September 1 to 4. The drive aimed to curb the growing menace of illicit substances and ensure public safety, officials said.

Massive Enforcement Drive

Excise enforcement teams detected a total of 902 cases during the operation, resulting in the seizure of contraband worth Rs3.91 crore. Among these, 29 cases were registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Authorities confiscated 320 kg of ganja and 560 grams of brown sugar, marking one of the largest narcotics hauls in recent months.

The crackdown reached its peak on September 4, when officials detected 254 cases, arrested 148 suspects, and seized illegal substances valued at Rs1.39 crore. The department’s Flying Squads played a key role in intercepting high-value narcotics shipments and dismantling local supply chains.

Zero Tolerance Policy

In its official statement, the Excise Department reaffirmed its commitment to a zero tolerance approach toward illicit liquor and narcotics. Officials emphasized that strict enforcement measures will continue across the state to protect public health and maintain law and order.

The department’s aggressive stance reflects growing concerns over the impact of narcotics and bootleg liquor on vulnerable communities. Authorities have pledged to intensify surveillance, enhance inter-agency coordination, and pursue legal action against repeat offenders.