Bhubaneswar: In-charge Odisha DGP Binayatosh Mishra has ordered a thorough investigation into a viral audio recording, allegedly exposing a nexus between police personnel and cannabis smugglers in Boudh district.
Mishra directed the Boudh SP to lead the probe and assigned an Additional SP to assist, instructing officials to verify the clip’s authenticity, identify those heard speaking, and determine whether any members of the force were linked to the alleged deal.
He noted that the recording is believed to be about eight months old and emphasised that strict action would follow if the claims are proved to be true.
The audio, which has circulated widely, purportedly captures a conversation among four individuals, suspected to include an Assistant Sub-Inspector and other police staff. The conversation revolves around a police patrol’s interception of a vehicle carrying roughly 120 kg of tape-packed ganja near Hatgaon on Jagannath Road during which two suspects were detained. Those on the call allegedly discussed the source of the contraband, a possible payment of Rs 4 lakh to a “saheb” to secure its release and an earlier attempt to release a similar consignment.
Names such as Jagadala, Nalini Sir and Pranabandhu are said to have featured repeatedly in the conversation.
The identities of the speakers and the genuineness of the recording have not yet been confirmed.Boudh
Boudh SP Kuldeep Meena stated that he was aware the clip and strict legal action will be taken against any personnel found colluding with the drug mafia, regardless of their rank. He also pointed to intensified anti-drug efforts in the district, noting that nearly seven tonnes of cannabis had been seized through enhanced patrolling and monitoring over the preceding three months, and reaffirmed a firm stance against trafficking.
The episode has drawn attention since repeated allegations of nexus of police personnel with drug traffickers have emerged from the district. In July, inspector Susmita Magar was suspended over her alleged links with ganja smugglers during her tenure as IIC of Manamunda police station.
