Bolangir police rescued 12 bonded labourers during night patrolling near Kurlubahal Chhak under Muribahal police limits.
The operation exposed illegal trafficking of labourers, while the prime accused managed to escape.
Muribahal police intercepted an auto-rickshaw carrying the labourers and seized the vehicle. They arrested the driver, identified as Binod Chhanda of Chanabahali village, and produced him in court.
The rescued labourers included one child, four women, and eight men. Police brought them to the station for questioning to establish details of the trafficking network.
Investigators revealed that Tejaraj Nag, a labour contractor from Dhatukjuri village, was illegally transporting the workers. However, he fled from the spot when police arrived.
Authorities confirmed that the rescued labourers belong to Chanabahali village under Muribahal police limits. Police registered a case (No. 237/2025) and launched further investigation.
Muribahal police officer Sanatan Sahu stated that Investigating Officer Pankajani Bag is handling the case. Officials assured that efforts are underway to trace the absconding accused and dismantle the trafficking racket.
The incident has raised concern in the locality, with residents demanding strict action against those exploiting vulnerable labourers.
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