Bhubaneswar: In a thrilling and high-stakes operation, the Special Crime Unit of Commissionerate Police successfully executed “Operation Black Smoke,” resulting in the seizure of over a quintal of cannabis and the arrest of two key suspects.
This operation, involving a dramatic hot pursuit on National Highway-15 from Pitapali to Janla Flyover, highlights the relentless efforts of the Special Crime Unit to combat the illegal drug trade and ensure public safety.
On 15/16.07.24 night, following a tip-off from a reliable source, the Special Crime Unit initiated surveillance on a suspected vehicle believed to be transporting a large quantity of cannabis from Phulbani to Jharkhand. As per input one white colour Maruti Ciaz, emitting huge smoke, coming from Phulbani via Khurda on NH, officers attempted to intercept it. However, the suspects attempted to evade capture, leading to a high-speed chase which continued from Pitapali and ended in Janla Fly Over.
The pursuit, which spanned several kilometres from Pitapali to Janla, saw the suspected vehicle weaving through traffic at high speeds in a desperate attempt to escape leaving a trail of heavy “BLACK SMOKE” behind. The Special Crime Unit team demonstrated exceptional coordination and driving skills, ensuring the safety of other motorists while closing in on the suspects.
The Special Crime Unit was previously prepared and three separate teams were engaged to intercept the car. Accordingly, two police vehicles chased the suspected car and the other team was placed near Janla’s to completely block the traffic coming from the Khurda side. The chase finally culminated near Janla Flyover, where the suspects were forced to stop their vehicle due to a strategically placed roadblock, the car could be intercepted by the police team in a well-coordinated manner and two suspects were detained while they were trying to escape abandoning the car.
Upon detaining the vehicle, officers found a quintal of cannabis concealed within. The two occupants of the vehicle, identified as (1) Sipun Behera (31) S/o-Kambupani Behera of Vill-Gudari PS-Khajuripada, Dist-Kandhamal (2) Ananta Digal (32) S/o-Sanyasi Digal of Vill-Gudari PS-Khajuripada, Dist-Kandhamal, were immediately taken into custody. One Maruti Ciaz Car bearing Regd No OD-02-AL-8656 loaded with 112 kg of Cannabis (Ganjei) was also seized along with two mobile phones. Both individuals are believed to be integral members of a larger drug trafficking network operating interstate.
The successful seizure of such a significant quantity of cannabis is a substantial blow to the operations of drug traffickers and a major victory for our law enforcement agencies. This operation not only disrupts the supply chain but also demonstrates our unwavering commitment to eradicating the illegal drug trade.
Investigations are ongoing to trace the origins of the seized cannabis and uncover the full extent of the trafficking network. Other accused persons involved in the illicit contraband trafficking have been identified along with the person of Jharkhand to whom the consignment was destined. A financial investigation will be done against all the accused involved in the case.
The Unit will pray the court to secure custodial interrogation of the two suspects for further interrogation and collection of evidence in this case.
“Operation Black Smoke” is a testament to the dedication and commitment of the Special Crime Unit to keep the City free from the menace of drugs and its syndicate. The dramatic hot pursuit and subsequent seizure of over a quintal of cannabis, along with the arrest of Rama and Gobinda, mark a significant milestone in our ongoing battle against drug trafficking. We remain resolute in our mission to protect our communities and uphold justice.
In the year 2024 till now Special Crime Unit registered two cases for illegal transportation of Cannabis with the arrest of 6 persons and the seizure of 412 Kgs worth Rs 41L. So also 3 cases for illegal possession of brown sugar with the arrest of 6 persons and with the seizure of 808 grams worth Rs. 80 L.
We continue to encourage the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. The success of operations like “Operation Black Smoke” relies heavily on public cooperation and support. ”Together, we can create a safer and drug-free environment for everyone”, Dy. Commissioner of Police said.