Serious allegations of misconduct have surfaced against three police personnel attached to Teliamura Police Station in Tripura, triggering a departmental inquiry and renewed concerns over alleged links between law enforcement and the drug trade in the region. The accused officers have been charged with allegedly diverting a large quantity of seized Eskuf cough syrup into the illegal market instead of ensuring proper legal procedures following the seizure.
Taking immediate action after the allegations came to light, District Superintendent of Police K.B. Jagadeeswar Reddy ordered the suspension of the three personnel and initiated a departmental investigation to ascertain the facts behind the incident. The suspended officials have been identified as Inspector Ajit Debbarma, Sub-Inspector Rajendra Reang, and Constable Sukanta Deb.
According to reports, the controversy stems from a late-night anti-narcotics operation conducted on May 20 by the Teliamura police. During the operation, officers intercepted a suspicious vehicle and officially reported the recovery of approximately 600 bottles of Eskuf cough syrup. However, allegations emerging from reliable sources suggest that the actual quantity recovered was significantly larger, reportedly close to 6,000 bottles.
Sources claim that a substantial portion of the seized consignment was allegedly not entered into official records. Instead, thousands of bottles were allegedly released back into the hands of traffickers, while several hundred bottles were reportedly diverted and sold in the illegal market targeting drug users.
The allegations have generated widespread concern among local residents and civil society groups, particularly because Teliamura police had previously faced scrutiny in connection with alleged irregularities surrounding narcotics seizures. The latest controversy has once again raised questions about the effectiveness and integrity of anti-drug operations in the area.
Eskuf, a codeine-based cough syrup, has long been identified as a substance prone to misuse and addiction. Due to its widespread abuse among youths in Tripura and neighboring Bangladesh, authorities have imposed restrictions on its distribution and use.
As investigations continue, the incident has intensified public demands for transparency and accountability, with many calling for strict action if the allegations against the police personnel are proven true.
