In a major crackdown on organised drug trafficking in the capital city, the Commissionerate Police conducted an encounter operation against a notorious drug mafia operative, leaving him injured during an exchange of fire near the Infovalley police station limits in Bhubaneswar, officials said on Wednesday.

The accused has been identified as Papun Majhi, a known drug trafficker from Jagannath Prasad area in Odisha’s Ganjam district. He was reportedly involved in illegal narcotics trade and had been under the scanner of law enforcement agencies for quite some time.

According to police sources, 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 Infovalley police station jurisdiction. The accused was allegedly in the area to conduct drug-related activities.

Acting swiftly on the tip-off, a police team launched a raid and attempted to apprehend the accused. However, upon noticing the police personnel, Papun allegedly tried to flee from the spot. In an attempt to escape arrest, he reportedly opened fire at the police team first.

The police retaliated in self-defence, leading to an exchange of gunfire. During the encounter, Papun Majhi sustained bullet injuries to his right leg. He was immediately overpowered and taken into custody by the police.

Following the incident, the injured accused was first rushed to Capital Hospital in Bhubaneswar for preliminary treatment. Considering the seriousness of his condition, 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.

The encounter has once again highlighted the growing concern over illegal drug trafficking in Odisha, particularly in the capital region, where law enforcement agencies have intensified their crackdown on organised crime and narcotics trade in recent months.

Security has been tightened in the area following the incident, while senior police officials are closely monitoring the investigation. More details regarding the accused’s criminal background and the recovery of weapons or contraband are expected to emerge as the probe progresses.