Ahmedabad Police Conduct Dramatic Night Raid, Seize Liquor Worth Over Rs 4.55 Lakh
In a significant crackdown on illegal liquor trade, the Prevention of Crime Branch (PCB) in Ahmedabad executed a late-night raid that resulted in the seizure of Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) valued at more than Rs 4.55 lakh and the arrest of a notorious bootlegger. The operation unfolded on Saturday night, following specific intelligence inputs that led police to lay a trap near the Narol-Piràna crossroads, close to Dev Hotel.
Chase and Arrest at Narol-Piràna Crossroads
Around 8:30 PM, a PCB team intercepted a white car suspected of transporting IMFL from Bareja towards Ahmedabad city. When signaled to stop, the driver allegedly attempted to flee, causing a traffic blockade in the process. In a desperate move, the car rammed into a stationary dumper, leading to the driver's detention. The arrested individual was identified as Ravi Vacheta, a 35-year-old native of Rajasthan who resides in Narol.
Seizure Details and Total Value of Confiscated Items
Upon searching the vehicle, police discovered 863 sealed bottles of IMFL, packed in 30 cartons and concealed under a black cloth on the rear seat and boot. The liquor stock was estimated to be worth Rs 4.6 lakh. Additionally, authorities seized the car, valued at Rs 5 lakh, and a mobile phone, bringing the total value of seized articles to Rs 9.60 lakh.
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
Ravi Vacheta is reported to have provided police with names of suppliers and intended recipients involved in the illicit liquor network. Police revealed that Vacheta has multiple prior cases related to prohibition violations and was wanted in an earlier offence registered with the Narol police station. An FIR has been filed under the Prohibition Act, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and the Motor Vehicles Act, marking a strict legal response to the incident.
This raid underscores the ongoing efforts by Ahmedabad authorities to combat illegal activities under Gujarat's prohibition laws, highlighting the risks and consequences associated with bootlegging operations in the region.
