A major development has emerged in the sensational drug trafficking case involving police personnel from Teliamura police station. Following the arrest of four police officials, including a woman police sub-inspector, for allegedly smuggling and selling a large quantity of seized narcotics, the court has sent three of the accused to judicial custody while extending the police remand of one accused.
The case has created a stir across Tripura’s police department. The investigation, being conducted by the Crime Branch, is reportedly uncovering crucial information and evidence that may further complicate the case.
According to police sources, soon after the allegations surfaced, the Khowai district police administration treated the matter with utmost seriousness. On the instructions of the Superintendent of Police, Khowai, the investigation was initially handed over to the Crime Branch. During the preliminary inquiry, action was taken against two police personnel—on the basis of suspicion, and they were placed under suspension and attached to the office of the Khowai SP.
Arrested police officials were identified as Inspector Ajit Debbarma, the second officer-in-charge (Second OC) of Teliamura police station; Sub-Inspector (SI) Rajendra Reang; Woman Sub-Inspector (SI) Sampa Das; and ASI Sachindra Debbarma, In-Charge of the Special Branch’s Teliamura Unit. The action was reportedly taken under the direction of Tripura Director General of Police Anurag Dhankar. And on May 25, four police personnel, including woman police officer Sampa Das, were arrested. When the accused were first produced before the Khowai court, the court granted five days of police remand.
After the completion of the remand period, the accused were again produced before the court on Saturday. Acting on a special plea by the Crime Branch, the judge ordered an additional five days of police remand for Rajendra Reang. The remaining three accused were sent to judicial custody for 14 days. They are scheduled to be produced before the court again on June 12.
Investigators claim that the accused were involved in secretly siphoning off a portion of the narcotics stored in the police station’s malkhana (evidence storage room) and selling them outside. Several police personnel are reportedly under the scanner, and investigators have already collected significant documents and evidence. However, these details have not yet been made public in the interest of the investigation.
Sources indicate that the entire operation was being carried out under the close supervision of the Additional Superintendent of Police and the direct control of the Tripura Crime Branch. Investigators suspect that more individuals, including additional police personnel, may have been involved in the illegal network. As a result, the scope of the investigation is being expanded.
The allegations against members of the law enforcement agency have triggered widespread public reaction. Both the administration and the general public are closely monitoring the progress of the investigation.
Police authorities have stated that no one involved in the case will be spared and that strict legal action will be taken against all those found guilty.