Khallikote, May 30: In a major crackdown on illegal narcotics trade, the Excise Intelligence Department seized 70 kilograms of ganja being smuggled in a high-end Mahindra XUV and arrested one individual in Khallikote on Thursday.
Acting on specific intelligence, a team from the Brahmapur Excise Intelligence Department, led by DSI Shrutikant Raut, intercepted the vehicle near the Khallikote toll gate. The ganja, reportedly being transported from Baliguda to Nayagarh, was found hidden inside the SUV.
Officials confirmed the arrest of the accused, identified as Bikash Bhatt, a resident of Sarankul in Nayagarh district. He was later produced before the Khallikote court.
DSI Raut estimated the combined value of the seized ganja and vehicle at approximately ₹21 lakh. He added that further investigation is underway to identify and arrest others involved in the smuggling racket.
The operation was carried out with the assistance of excise officials SI Ajit Kumar Nayak, Balaram Jena, Prabir Samal, Kumud Pradhan, Kapilas Bhatra, and Santosh Nayak.
Authorities have assured that efforts are being intensified to dismantle the entire smuggling network operating in the region.
