Cuttack-Bhubaneswar Commissionerate’s Intensive Drug Enforcement
The Cuttack-Bhubaneswar Commissionerate Police has escalated its efforts to combat illegal drug activities through Operation ‘White Spider’. This major initiative aims to address the growing concerns over narcotics trafficking and consumption within the Bhubaneswar Urban Police District. Since the operation’s inception, the police have successfully arrested 142 drug peddlers, signaling a decisive effort to dismantle the illegal drug trade in the region.
Recent Arrests and Seizures
In July 2024, Operation ‘White Spider’ yielded notable results. The police tackled five separate cases involving the sale of brown sugar, resulting in the arrest of 11 individuals. Authorities seized 55.990 grams of brown sugar, cash amounting to Rs 2,84,100, seven mobile phones, and six two-wheelers from the suspects. These actions are part of a broader strategy to disrupt the supply chains of narcotics and reduce their availability in the local market.
Similarly, the operation addressed three cases related to the illegal sale of ganja. Eight individuals were arrested in connection with these cases, with the police confiscating 41.7 kg of marijuana (ganja), Rs 920 in cash, three mobile phones, and one four-wheeler. These seizures represent a significant step in curtailing the distribution of this illegal substance.
Year-to-Date Statistics and Impact
Operation ‘White Spider’, which began in August 2021, has made substantial progress this year. From January to July 2024, the operation resulted in the registration of 35 cases related to illegal brown sugar sales. During this period, 65 drug peddlers were arrested, and the police seized 543.29 grams of brown sugar, Rs 6,65,625 in cash, 24 mobile phones, 26 two-wheelers, and three four-wheelers.
The operation also targeted the illegal sale of ganja, with 38 cases reported in July 2024 alone. This led to the arrest of 66 individuals and the seizure of five quintals of ganja, Rs 1,58,760 in cash, 19 mobile phones, six two-wheelers, one three-wheeler, and seven four-wheelers. These figures highlight the extensive scale of the operation’s impact on the drug trade.
Community Involvement and Reporting
To bolster community involvement in the fight against drug crime, the Bhubaneswar City Police have introduced a dedicated WhatsApp number, 7077798111. This platform allows residents to report illegal drug activities and other criminal incidents in their areas, enhancing public participation in maintaining safety and order.
Operation ‘White Spider’ continues to play a vital role in addressing drug-related issues. By implementing a multi-faceted approach that includes arrests, seizures, and community engagement, the police are working to significantly reduce the influence and reach of illegal narcotics in the Bhubaneswar Urban Police District.
(With inputs from agencies)
