Police in Barpali arrested two accused on Thursday evening in connection with the fake food factory case that sparked widespread discussion across Bargarh district.
The factory, located near the RMC weekly market, had been sealed earlier after officials discovered large-scale production and sale of adulterated food and beverages.
The arrested individuals were identified as Abhilash Agrawal and Ankit Agrawal. Police registered Case No. 190/26 under Sections 318, 275, 272, 274, 338, and 336 of the IPC and produced the accused in court.
During the raid, investigators seized 20 quintals of old newspapers, 2 quintals of wood powder, and large quantities of chocolates, biscuits, snacks, and soft drinks. Samples have been sent to the laboratory for testing.
Police said the illegal business had been running for a long time with support from certain individuals. On the day of the raid, the factory owner fled the scene.
Bargarh SDPO Padarabindu Tripathy briefed the media at Barpali police station, confirming the arrests and detailing the seized materials. He added that further investigation will trace where the adulterated products were distributed and sold.
Tahasildar Rukman Meher and IIC Pramod Sahu were present during the press briefing. Authorities assured strict action against those involved in the racket.
