Bhubaneswar: A notorious drug mafia was injured in an exchange of fire with the police near Infovalley area of Bhubaneswar.
The accused, identified as Papun Majhi from Jagannath Prasad area in Ganjam district, was reportedly involved in illegal narcotics trade. He had been under the scanner of law enforcement agencies for quite some time.
Police sources said the operation was carried out by the Special Crime Unit of the Commissionerate Police after receiving credible intelligence regarding Papun’s presence near Arisol under the jurisdiction of I
nfovalley police station for drug-related activities.
In a quick action, a police team launched a raid and attempted to apprehend the accused. However, upon noticing the police personnel, the accused tried to flee from the spot. In an attempt to escape arrest, he reportedly opened fire at the police team first.
As the police team retaliated in self-defence, an exchange of fire erupted and Papun Majhi sustained bullet injuries to his right leg. He was immediately overpowered and taken into custody by the police.
The injured accused was first taken to Capital Hospital in Bhubaneswar for preliminary treatment. He was later shifted to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack for advanced medical care.
Police officials stated that further investigation is underway to ascertain the extent of Papun’s involvement in the narcotics network operating in and around Bhubaneswar. Authorities are also probing his possible links with interstate drug syndicates and other criminal associates.
Police seized a substantial quantity of drugs from the accused along with a 7.6 mm pistol.
Papun was involved in nearly 20 criminal cases, including illegal drug trade and arms dealing, police said.