Sambalpur: Encroachment Eviction at Jail Chowk; Fake Police Officer Caught Running Illegal Drug Business on Government Land
Encroachment Eviction Reveals Hidden Drug Spot
Sambalpur: In the Dhanupali area of Sambalpur, a man falsely posed as a police officer and ran an illegal drug den on government land. This came to light during an eviction drive for road expansion near Jail Chowk. Enforcement officer Sushant Sahu confirmed the incident.
Shops and Cabins Demolished for Road Expansion
As part of the road widening project from Jail Chowk to the district school, the Sambalpur Municipal Corporation (SMC) demolished portions of 19 legally recognized shops, 15 illegal shops, and 9 makeshift cabins. The eviction team, including the Tahsildar and SMC officials, identified encroached government land and areas meant for road expansion.
Hidden Drug Hub Discovered
During the inspection, officials discovered a secluded area behind the cabins where illegal activities like ganja (cannabis) consumption, liquor drinking, and hookah smoking were taking place. Suspicion grew when a man identified himself as a finance department employee from the SP office. Locals claimed that he ran the illegal drug den and intimidated anyone who opposed his business by falsely using police connections.
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Fake Police Identity Exposed
When questioned about the illegal occupation of government land, the man argued with officials. However, after Dhanupali police arrived, it was confirmed that he was not a police officer. Authorities then demolished the illegal structure where the drug activities were happening.
Further Demolitions and Action
Officials clarified that even if the illegal structure belonged to a real police officer, it would still have been demolished. The man had also rented out some cabins and shops on encroached land. Additionally, a beauty parlor, a welding shop, and other illegal constructions near the district school were removed.
Widespread Encroachment Eviction
In recent weeks, authorities have carried out large-scale eviction drives in areas like Sen Park and Motijharan to remove illegal structures and reclaim government land.
