The Excise Squad arrested notorious ganja trader Pushpa from Baramunda along with two associates, seizing a large quantity of cannabis, bombs and two luxury cars.
Officials said Pushpa attempted to escape by hurling bombs but was overpowered by the squad. The arrest followed a coordinated operation targeting the illegal narcotics trade in the capital city.
Authorities confirmed that the seized contraband included a significant stock of ganja and explosives, indicating the scale of Pushpa’s operations. The Excise Squad stated that the crackdown was part of ongoing efforts to dismantle organised drug networks in Odisha.
Pushpa, long known for his involvement in ganja smuggling, had evaded law enforcement on multiple occasions. His arrest marks a major breakthrough in curbing the illegal trade.
The Excise Department emphasised that strict action will continue against those engaged in narcotics trafficking. Investigations are underway to trace the wider network connected to Pushpa and his associates.
