In a significant crackdown on the illegal liquor trade, a joint excise team from Hazaribag and Chatra districts conducted a major raid, leading to the seizure of a large consignment of illicit alcohol. The operation took place in the intervening night of Tuesday and Wednesday.
Major Haul in Village Raids
The enforcement teams targeted locations within the limits of the Katkamsandi police station. Acting on intelligence, they raided Arabhusai village and Mahugain tola. The haul from these raids was substantial.
The officials confiscated a total of 477 litres of illicit foreign liquor. This premium contraband was carefully packed and discovered in 53 cartons. In a separate but connected find, the team also seized 210 litres of spirit (raw alcohol) contained in six large cans.
Arrests and Manhunt for Accused
Following the seizure, police moved quickly to apprehend those involved. Vishesh Kumar Soni, a resident of Matwari, was taken into custody. He now faces legal proceedings for his alleged role in the illicit trade.
However, the investigation points to a larger network. Police have registered cases against six other individuals who are currently evading arrest. The absconding accused have been identified as:
- Ashish Dangi
- Subhash Dangi
- Ravindra Yadav
- Parvez Ansari
- Basarat Mian
- Sundar Munda
All six are residents of Arabhusai village, indicating the operation was centered on a local racket. A manhunt is underway to locate and arrest them.
Ongoing Crackdown and Implications
This joint operation highlights the continued efforts by the excise departments and police in the region to clamp down on the production and distribution of illegal alcohol. Such illicit trade not only causes significant revenue loss for the state but also poses serious health risks to consumers due to unregulated and often toxic ingredients.
The seizure of such a large volume of foreign-branded liquor and spirit suggests the presence of an organized supply chain. Authorities are likely to investigate the source of the contraband and its intended distribution network across Hazaribag and possibly neighboring districts.
The case remains active as police pursue the absconding accused and delve deeper into the racket to uncover its masterminds and financial backers.
