Raigarh — In a sweeping anti-narcotics campaign dubbed “Operation Aaghat,” the Raigarh Police have carried out one of the most significant crackdowns on illegal substances in recent history, marking two months of intensive enforcement with massive seizures and hundreds of arrests.
Led by Senior Superintendent of Police Shashi Mohan Singh, the operation was launched on January 26 immediately after he assumed office. From the outset, SSP Singh made it clear that illegal activities such as drug trafficking, illicit liquor trade, and gambling would not be tolerated anywhere in the district.
Massive Seizures and Arrests
Over the past two months (January 26 to March 26), Raigarh Police have:
- Seized 2,845 liters of illegal liquor (including country-made, foreign, and mahua liquor)
- Confiscated over 100 kilograms of cannabis (ganja)
- Destroyed and seized 2,963 kilograms of illegal opium (including plants)
- Registered 357 cases related to illicit liquor
- Arrested a total of 394 accused individuals
- Seized 24 vehicles used in transportation (21 two-wheelers and 3 four-wheelers)
The total estimated value of the seized narcotics stands at approximately ₹4.5 crore (around $540,000 USD).
Targeting Illicit Liquor and Cross-Border Smuggling
Police registered 357 cases related to illegal liquor and arrested 367 individuals, with 139 cases falling under non-bailable sections of the Excise Act. A significant portion—2,612 liters—was mahua liquor.
Authorities noted that these actions have effectively curbed the smuggling of illegal mahua liquor from neighboring Odisha into the district.
Crackdown on Cannabis Trafficking
Focusing on trafficking routes connected to Odisha, police executed a targeted strategy that led to:
- 16 cases registered
- 27 traffickers arrested
- Over 100 kg of cannabis seized, valued at approximately ₹25.5 lakh
Action Against Illegal Opium Cultivation
In line with state government directives, police also cracked down on illegal opium farming. Operations in areas such as Tamnar and Lailunga resulted in:
- 4 cases registered
- 7 individuals arrested
- 2,963 kg of opium plants seized, worth approximately ₹4.18 crore
Public Cooperation Encouraged
SSP Singh emphasized that the campaign is ongoing and called on citizens to assist law enforcement:
“Raigarh Police have launched a strong अभियान (campaign) against narcotics. ‘Operation Aaghat’ will continue. If any illegal activity is happening in your area, please report it. Your identity will be kept confidential.”
Residents can report suspicious activities directly via the SSP’s mobile number: +91 94791 93200.
Continuing the Fight
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to maintaining pressure on drug networks and ensuring that Raigarh remains free from narcotics-related crimes. With continued public support and strict enforcement, “Operation Aaghat” is expected to intensify further in the coming months.