Railway Police intercepted a major cough syrup smuggling attempt at Bolangir Railway Station on November 6.
Officers seized 900 bottles packed in 24 crates from two large bags on Platform No. 2.
The accused, Raja alias Dhabaleswar Jena, was arrested during the operation. He resides in Barpalipada, Bolangir, and is known for repeated offenses involving illegal cough syrup trade. Authorities revealed that Raja had previously been jailed multiple times and was out on bail.
The seized cough syrup, valued at over ₹1 lakh, was being transported via train. Police suspect it was part of a larger network distributing banned substances across regions. Investigators are now tracing the intended destination and possible accomplices.
Sources confirmed that Raja had planned the shipment meticulously. The packaging and timing indicated an organized effort to bypass security checks. Railway Police acted on a tip-off and caught the suspect red-handed.
This incident highlights the growing concern over cough syrup abuse and illegal distribution in Odisha. Law enforcement agencies continue to tighten surveillance at transport hubs to curb such activities.
The investigation remains ongoing, with officials determined to dismantle the entire supply chain. Raja’s arrest could lead to further breakthroughs in the crackdown on pharmaceutical smuggling.
