In a stern message to syndicates attempting to exploit the ongoing festive celebrations, the Odisha Excise Department has launched an aggressive statewide crackdown, seizing illegal liquor, narcotics, and smuggled contraband valued at Rs 5.10 crore within just five days.
The special enforcement operation—running from October 10 to 31—focuses on blocking the manufacture, storage, sale, and transit of illicitly distilled (ID) alcohol, non-duty-paid liquor, duplicate spirits, and narcotic drugs across urban and rural belts.
Massive Haul in Just 5 Days
According to official figures released by the Department, enforcement teams registered 958 total cases between October 10 and October 14, including 25 high-stakes cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. A total of 470 offenders have been taken into custody and forwarded to court.
During the initial raids, officials intercepted large quantities of narcotics and bootleg alcohol meant for distribution during peak Durga Puja and upcoming regional festivities.
Key Seizure Breakdown:
- Illicit Distilled (ID) Liquor: 46,218 bulk litres
- Ganja (Cannabis): 931 kilograms
- Heroin: 135 grams
- Codeine-based Cough Syrup: 25.4 litres
- Mahua Flowers (Raw material): 795 kg
- Duplicate Foreign Liquor: 39 litres
- Impounded Vehicles: 62 units (used for bootlegging and drug smuggling)
Zero Tolerance Policy in Force
The ongoing 21-day drive follows strict directives issued by Excise authorities and Minister Prithviraj Harichandan, instructing district superintendents to enforce a zero-tolerance policy against habitual offenders and gather airtight legal evidence to ensure high conviction rates in court.
With heightened surveillance at border check posts, railway corridors, and local hotspots, excise units—in close coordination with local police—will maintain strict vigilance through Oct 31 to safeguard public health and preserve law and order during the festive period.
