Special Crime Unit targets shops near university in Infocity
The Bhubaneswar Commissionerate's Special Crime Unit on Monday carried out a series of surprise raids at shops located in the vicinity of a private university in the Infocity area as part of a focused operation to curb the sale of drugs near educational institutions. The operation was conducted within the limits of the Infocity police station and led by the Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police, officials said.
Police described the checks as routine but sustained action, with similar raids planned across the city in areas identified as vulnerable to drug distribution near colleges and schools. The drive is intended to raise awareness, discourage supply to students and ensure that commercial outlets in the neighbourhood comply with law and order requirements.
"We are conducting these raids to curb and prevent the sale of drugs across the city. The raids are specifically being carried out in vulnerable areas, particularly at shops near educational institutions," Additional DCP Swaraj Debata said, adding that appropriate action and fines would follow based on investigation findings.
Officials emphasised that the sale of drugs near educational institutions will not be tolerated. The police warned that strict action would be taken against those found to be selling narcotics or abetting their distribution in such localities. Further investigation was reported to be underway at the time of the operation.
- Lead agency: Special Crime Unit, Commissionerate Police
- Area covered: Shops near a private university in the Infocity police station limits
- Objective: Prevent sale of drugs in and around educational institutions; create awareness and protect students
| Action | Location | Authority |
|---|---|---|
| Surprise raids and checks | Shops near private university, Infocity | Special Crime Unit / Additional DCP |
| Investigations and penalties | Infocity police station limits | Commissionerate Police |
Local residents and guardians of students welcomed the heightened vigilance but asked for continued and transparent action to ensure long-term results. Traders in the Infocity area expressed concern that routine commerce might be disrupted and said they expect clear communication from police on search protocols and the legal basis for fines or further proceedings.
For parents and students in Bhubaneswar, authorities stressed practical precautions: avoid suspicious offers, report unknown persons loitering near campuses, safeguard personal belongings and share credible information with the police helpline. The Commissionerate did not disclose details of any arrests or seizures from the operation when the checks were reported.
Police indicated that the current operation is part of a broader strategy to monitor and act in recognised hotspots. Residents are advised to cooperate with law enforcement while also seeking clarification from the Infocity police station on rights and remedies if they are affected by enforcement measures.
What citizens should do:
- Immediately report suspicious sale or distribution of substances near schools and colleges to the Infocity police station.
- Keep emergency contacts handy and encourage students to avoid isolated areas around campuses after dark.
- Request traders' associations to coordinate with police for awareness drives so legitimate shops are not unfairly targeted.
The Commissionerate reiterated its commitment to keeping educational hubs safe and said similar targeted drives would continue across Bhubaneswar to deter narcotics supply chains and protect young residents.
