Sambalpur: Sahu Colony; A Safe Haven for Drug Dealers Operating in Plain Sight Under Police Protection

Open Drug Trade Continues Boldly in Broad Daylight

Sambalpur: An open illegal drug market exists in Sambalpur’s Sahu Colony, even in broad daylight. Drug dealers operate openly just 200 meters from the Town Police Station, selling cough syrup and other narcotics as if they were legal vendors. Despite the presence of law enforcement, no officers are visible, and the Excise Department has yet to conduct a raid.

Daylight Sales in Sahu Colony: Buyers Flock for Cough Syrup

During the middle of the day, buyers flock to Sahu Colony to buy cough syrup for INR 200 per bottle. The trade is fearless, with vendors selling not only cough syrup but also brown sugar and narcotic pills. These transactions happen right in the open, as if under the protection of a legal license.

Sahu Colony: A History of Drug Trade and Police Inaction

Last June, authorities cleared illegal encroachments in Sahu Colony, owing primarily to the rampant drug trade. However, only a year later, the situation has returned to its previous state. Makeshift homes have reappeared, and drug vendors have resumed business. A woman at the entrance to Sahu Colony openly sells drugs to customers, such as cough syrup, brown sugar, and narcotic tablets.

Drug Trade Expands: Not Just Cough Syrup, but Brown Sugar and More

The drug trade in Sahu Colony extends beyond cough syrup. Brown sugar and other narcotics are widely available, with storage facilities located throughout the area. Large amounts of cough syrup and narcotic tablets are stashed near a pond, while other areas contain illegally brewed alcohol.

Kingpin Controls the Market: Forced Purchases and Threats

A notorious criminal, known for his previous crimes and frequently seen wearing a gold chain, now runs the cough syrup trade in Sahu Colony. He operates under police protection, forcing local vendors to buy their inventory from him. Any vendor attempting to purchase elsewhere will face violent threats and confiscation of their goods. This kingpin has risen to the top of the local drug trade.

Women and Children Exploited in the Drug Trade

Women and children are exploited in this illegal trade, which is frequently used to sell drugs. Despite this, the police appear unaware of the situation. Sambalpur residents are well aware of the drug market in Sahu Colony, but the police department appears unaware.

The “Corex Debata”: A Tarnished Title for a Police Officer

Residents have nicknamed a police officer stationed at a local police station the “Corex Debata” (Cough Syrup God) in a shocking twist. This officer, accused of coordinating the drug trade and informing vendors of impending raids, has been in the same position for more than three years, defying standard transfer regulations. Despite the widespread criminal activity, his role in facilitating the drug trade has earned him the respect of the vendors.

Community Outrage: Demands for Action and Accountability

The community is outraged, wondering how such a large drug trade can thrive right under the noses of the police. With allegations of police involvement and drug market protection, residents are calling for immediate action to put an end to the illegal trade and hold those responsible accountable.