June 11th 2024.
A new challenge has emerged for the security forces engaged in anti-Maoist operations near the state border, putting their strength to the test. Recent months have brought to light the presence of 'doda' smugglers, who deal in the bark of the opium tree. In fact, during their search operations, the forces have managed to seize 'doda' worth a staggering amount of Rs 6 crores. This success can be attributed to the combined efforts of CRPF, Jaguar, and CoBRA battalions, who have carried out two successful operations and recovered a significant amount of 'doda'.
The first breakthrough came on April 21 when a tip-off led security forces to an abandoned house, where they discovered over 2,162 kg of 'doda' hidden in 92 sacks. This amount alone was valued at a whopping Rs 3.24 crores. This discovery raised alarms among the forces, as it was clear that such a large-scale operation could not have been carried out without the involvement of the Naxals. This suspicion was confirmed when, on June 2, a raid in a jungle near the Chaki river resulted in the seizure of another 2,100 kg of 'doda' worth nearly Rs 3.15 crore. It became evident that the Naxals were using this illegal activity as a means to earn money, in addition to their usual sources like mines and industries in the Maoist-affected areas.
It is worth noting that both these seizures took place within a distance of 30-50 km from the Odisha border, in the West Singhbhum district of Jharkhand. "This is just another way for the Naxals to make money, apart from their regular sources. They provide protection to this illegal trade, which is carried out in the Saranda forest, one of the largest forests in the country spanning over 820 sq. km," revealed an official from the other side of the border. The forest shares its borders with Odisha, and the timber smuggled from here is sold in Rourkela and other parts of the state. On the other hand, Rourkela is a transit point for the smuggling of 'ganja' from Kandhamal, Koraput, and surrounding areas, which is then sent to Jharkhand and Bihar. The illegal timber trade and 'ganja' smuggling are well-known activities in this area.
The security forces have shared this intelligence with each other, as the situation requires their collaboration and cooperation. Rourkela, being in close proximity to Jharkhand, has a porous border, making it vulnerable to such illegal activities. The forces are determined to put an end to these activities and maintain peace and order in the region.
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