Major Liquor Seizure in Gujarat: SMC Confiscates Rs 89 Lakh Cache in Botad District
In a significant enforcement action, the Gujarat State Monitoring Cell (SMC) conducted a raid on Tuesday that led to the seizure of a substantial cache of Indian-made foreign liquor (IMFL) and related materials, with a total estimated value of Rs 89 lakh. The operation took place in a field located in Ratanpar village, within the Botad district of the state.
Details of the Seized Contraband
Officials from the SMC reported that the confiscated items included 15,324 bottles of IMFL, which alone are valued at approximately Rs 64.33 lakh. The liquor was discovered hidden in an abandoned truck, which had been left unattended in the remote area. Preliminary investigations have revealed that the seized alcohol was originally distilled by companies based in Chandigarh, indicating a potential interstate smuggling operation.
Wanted Individuals and Ongoing Investigation
As a result of the seizure, authorities have declared eight persons wanted in connection with the case. Among the key suspects is Vijay Boricha, a listed bootlegger from Raypar village in the Gadhada taluka of Botad district. Boricha is suspected to be the intended receiver of the liquor consignment, highlighting his alleged involvement in illegal distribution networks.
Other individuals named as accused in the case include:
- Uday Khachar
- Hitesh Khachar
- Kartik Khachar
All three are residents of Khambhada village in the Barvala taluka. The police are actively searching for these suspects, along with several other persons of interest.
Expanding Search for Additional Suspects
In addition to the named individuals, law enforcement agencies are intensifying their efforts to locate:
- The owner and driver of the truck used to transport the liquor.
- The driver of an SUV that may have been involved in the operation.
- An unidentified worker allegedly linked to Vijay Boricha.
- The supplier of the liquor, who is believed to have sourced it from Chandigarh.
The SMC's operation underscores the ongoing crackdown on bootlegging activities in Gujarat, where strict prohibition laws are in place. This seizure not only disrupts a significant illegal supply chain but also sends a strong message against such illicit trade. Further investigations are underway to uncover the full extent of the network and bring all involved parties to justice.
