Boudh: Following the circulation of a purported audio recording allegedly discussing an illegal ganja deal involving police personnel in Odisha’s Boudh district, Director General of Police (DGP) Binayatosh Mishra has directed the Boudh SP to conduct a probe. Mishra has also ordered that an Additional SP be assigned to assist with the investigation.

The DGP added the audio recording is believed to be around eight months old. He directed officials to ascertain the authenticity of the recording, identify the persons involved and determine whether any police personnel had links to the alleged ganja transaction.

In addition, the DGP said if the allegations are found to be true, strict action will be taken against the police officers or personnel found involved.

The audio purportedly features a conversation among around four people regarding a vehicle carrying ganja that was intercepted during police patrolling near Hatgaon on Jagannath Road in the district.

Police had seized the vehicle carrying around 120 kg of ganja and detained two persons during the operation. The viral recording reportedly contains a conversation about who had supplied the contraband and whether money was to be paid to a particular "saheb".

Several names, including Jagadala, Nalini Sir and Pranabandhu, are allegedly mentioned repeatedly in the recording. The conversation also purportedly refers to a transaction involving ₹4 lakh, tape-packed ganja and an alleged attempt to release the contraband four days earlier.

The authenticity of the audio recording and the identities of the people heard in it have not yet been established.

The development assumes significance as Boudh has previously witnessed allegations of links between police personnel and the illegal ganja trade. A police station officer was reportedly suspended by the DGP a few days ago over alleged links with ganja smugglers.

In his reaction, Boudh Superintendent of Police (SP) Kuldeep Meena said he was aware of the viral audio and assured strict action would be taken if any police personnel were found to be involved in the illegal trade.