Major Liquor Smuggling Bust in Koderma: 1,258 Bottles Found Concealed in Potato Van
In a significant crackdown on illicit liquor trade, Koderma district police made a substantial recovery of India Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) on Wednesday. The operation led to the seizure of a total of 1,258 bottles of premium liquor brands, cleverly hidden under sacks of potatoes in a pickup van.
Police Operation and Dramatic Escape
Acting on specific intelligence about the movement of illegal liquor consignments, Domchanch police established a strategic vehicle check post near Nirupahadi along the busy Koderma-Giridih main road. The operation was meticulously planned to intercept the suspected smuggling attempt.
Around 1:30 pm, the targeted vehicle approached the checkpoint. Upon noticing the police presence, the driver made a desperate attempt to evade capture. In a dramatic turn of events, the driver abandoned the vehicle near a local petrol pump and fled the scene on foot.
Despite immediate pursuit by police personnel, the suspect managed to escape into the surrounding area. No arrests were made until late evening, leaving authorities to focus on the seized contraband and vehicle.
Substantial Recovery and Legal Action
The police examination revealed the sophisticated concealment method used by the smugglers. A total of 261.9 litres of various premium liquor brands had been carefully hidden beneath potato sacks in what appeared to be a routine agricultural transport vehicle.
When no claimant came forward and no valid documentation was presented at the scene, police authorities took decisive action. They seized both the liquor consignment and the vehicle used for transportation.
A formal case has been registered at the Domchanch police station under multiple legal provisions. The charges include Sections 274 and 275 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) along with Section 47(A) of the Excise Act, indicating serious violations of liquor trade regulations.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Appeal
Superintendent of Police Anudeep Singh confirmed that comprehensive raids are currently underway to dismantle the entire smuggling network operating in the region. The police are following multiple leads to identify all individuals involved in this illicit operation.
"We are determined to root out this illegal trade network completely," stated SP Singh. "Our investigation teams are working round the clock to track down those responsible for this smuggling attempt."
The police have made a public appeal for citizen cooperation in combating illegal liquor trade. Authorities have assured complete confidentiality for anyone providing information about suspicious activities related to liquor smuggling in the district.
"We urge citizens to report any suspicious activity related to the liquor trade," emphasized SP Singh. "Their identities will remain completely confidential, and their information could be crucial in preventing such illegal activities."
The destination of the seized consignment remains under investigation as police work to determine the intended recipients and the broader network behind this smuggling operation. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges authorities face in controlling illegal liquor trade in the region.
