Major Liquor Consignment Intercepted in Hazaribag Ahead of Civic Polls
In a significant crackdown on illicit liquor trade, Hazaribag police have seized a substantial consignment of India Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) that was allegedly being smuggled into Bihar. The operation, which took place late on Friday, resulted in the arrest of one individual involved in the smuggling racket.
Police Raid Near Bodha Forest Area
According to Superintendent of Police Anjani Anjan, a specialized police team conducted a targeted raid near the Bodha forest area within Tatijharia police station limits. During the operation, officers spotted a suspicious pickup van that lacked proper registration plates. As police approached, the driver attempted to flee the scene but was swiftly apprehended by the alert team members.
Upon thorough inspection, authorities discovered 60 cartons of foreign liquor carefully concealed inside the vehicle. The seizure represents a major blow to interstate liquor smuggling operations that have been increasingly active in the region.
Heightened Vigilance During Civic Body Elections
The timing of this seizure is particularly significant as the model code of conduct remains in full force due to ongoing civic body elections. Local administration has been placed on high alert to prevent any potential misuse of alcohol during the electoral process. Such stringent measures aim to maintain law and order and ensure fair polling conditions across the district.
"With the model code of conduct actively enforced for civic polls, our administration is maintaining strict vigilance to curb any illegal activities, including liquor misuse," emphasized police officials involved in the operation.
Accused Identified and Confesses
The arrested individual has been identified as Ramchandra Saw, a resident of Bodha village which falls under the same police station jurisdiction. During interrogation, Saw reportedly confessed to his active involvement in the liquor smuggling operation. He disclosed that the seized consignment was specifically intended for illegal transportation into neighboring Bihar state.
Police investigations reveal that Saw was operating as part of a larger network that exploits the porous interstate borders for illicit liquor trade. The successful interception prevented what could have been a substantial quantity of alcohol reaching the black market in Bihar.
Ongoing Investigations and Future Measures
Authorities have registered a case under relevant sections of the law and are continuing their investigation to uncover possible connections to broader smuggling networks. The police are examining whether Saw was acting alone or as part of an organized criminal syndicate operating across state lines.
This seizure follows increased police patrolling and intelligence gathering efforts in sensitive border areas. Law enforcement agencies have been coordinating closely with their counterparts in neighboring states to disrupt cross-border illegal activities, particularly during election periods when such commodities might be misused to influence voters.
The Hazaribag police have reiterated their commitment to maintaining strict enforcement against all forms of illegal trade and ensuring peaceful conduct of the ongoing civic elections. Further operations are planned to dismantle similar smuggling networks operating in the region.
