Bhubaneswar, May 28 -- The illegal brown sugar trade allegedly operating from Bangladesh to Odisha through West Bengal continues to raise serious concerns. Officials suspect that multiple trafficking routes are being used to circulate narcotics among youths across the state.

From highways and railway lines to waterways, the narcotic substance is allegedly being smuggled into Odisha through an organised network involving middlemen and local mafia operatives.

Officials and local residents suspect that Balasore emerged as a major hub for illegal brown sugar circulation, while Jaleswar near the West Bengal border is allegedly functioning as a key entry point for narcotics entering Odisha.

Questions are also being raised regarding the alleg...