Bhubaneswar, Odisha : The ongoing Enforcement Special Drive of the State Excise Department has recorded another significant breakthrough on its twelfth day, with contraband articles valued at approximately ₹1.69 crore seized across multiple districts.
In a concerted crackdown against illicit liquor and narcotic substances, enforcement teams detected 292 cases and arrested 168 individuals for violations under the Excise Act and Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS)Act.
Operations led to the seizure of 13,988 bulk litres (BL) of illicitly distilled liquor, 785 BL of duty-paid liquor, and the destruction of over 1.43 lakh litres of fermented wash, which is used in the production of illicit liquor. In addition, about 524 kilograms of mohua flowers, a key ingredient in out-still liquor, were confiscated. Authorities also impounded 23 vehicles allegedly used in the transportation of these contraband materials.
A noteworthy feature of the drive was the action under the NDPS Act. Enforcement personnel booked 10 cases leading to the seizure of 132 kilograms of ganja and 332 grams of heroin, reinforcing the department’s stated policy of zero tolerance against narcotics.
Excise Department emphasized that the coordinated enforcement campaign is part of a sustained effort to dismantle the nexus of illegal trade in alcohol and drugs. “The twelfth day’s achievements underline the department’s firm resolve to curb illicit activities and protect public health and safety,”
The Excise Department has been conducting the Special Enforcement Drive with intensified surveillance, field raids, and intelligence-led operations since the beginning of the month. The drive is expected to continue with equal momentum in the coming days.
Also Read : Excise Drive Odisha: ₹1.46 Cr Contraband Seized, 136 Held
