Phulbani: The Special Task Force (STF) of the Odisha Police apprehended a notorious drug peddler in the Gadiapada region of Kandhamal district. The accused, identified as Kishore Chandra Mallik (58), was taken into custody following a targeted raid based on intelligence inputs aimed at curbing the illegal trade of narcotic drugs in the region.
During the operation, STF officers discovered and seized an astounding quantity of ganja from the possession of the accused. The seized contraband weighed more than 303 kilograms, highlighting the scale of the illegal drug trade that law enforcement authorities are actively combatting. In addition to the substantial amount of ganja, the STF also recovered other incriminating materials during the raid, as per an official release.
The accused, Kishore Chandra Mallik, reportedly failed to produce any valid authority supporting his possession of the seized substances. This has prompted the STF to intensify its ongoing investigation into the matter to uncover the extent of the illegal drug network in the area.
The recent success in Gadiapada adds to the STF’s commendable track record in tackling drug-related crimes. Since the year 2020, the specialized unit has made significant strides in combating narcotics, seizing over 74 kilograms of brown sugar/heroin, 202 grams of cocaine, more than 120 quintals of marijuana, and 3 kilograms and 630 grams of opium. Additionally, the STF has successfully apprehended more than 186 drug peddlers in its relentless pursuit of dismantling drug networks operating in the state.
As investigations proceed, the authorities are expected to delve deeper into the network and bring those involved in the illegal drug trade to justice. The arrest of Kishore Chandra Mallik serves as a stern warning to others involved in such activities, signaling that law enforcement agencies remain vigilant and proactive in their pursuit of a drug-free society.
