Kolhapur Excise Department Intercepts Major Alcohol Smuggling Operation
In a significant crackdown on illicit liquor trade, the flying squad of the Kolhapur excise department conducted a successful operation on Thursday, leading to the seizure of a truck smuggling alcohol valued at approximately Rs 1.2 crore. The interception took place at Anuskura village, strategically located on the borders of Kolhapur and Ratnagiri districts, highlighting the ongoing efforts to curb illegal activities in the region.
Arrest and Details of the Seized Consignment
The authorities arrested the driver of the truck, identified as Ramjeevan Virdharam Bishnoi, a 26-year-old resident of Rajasthan. During the inspection, excise officials discovered a substantial haul of 160 boxes loaded in the vehicle. Upon closer examination, these boxes were found to contain 180ml bottles of alcohol, raising immediate concerns about the nature and quality of the products.
Concerns Over Sub-Standard and Spurious Liquor
An excise official involved in the operation provided critical insights into the seized liquor. He stated that the alcohol was manufactured in Goa but exhibited signs of being sub-standard and potentially spurious. The official emphasized that the labels on the bottles lacked essential information, including:
- Any batch number for traceability
- The name of the manufacturer
- The date of manufacturing
This absence of proper labeling not only violates regulatory standards but also poses serious health risks to consumers, as such products can be adulterated or of inferior quality.
Implications and Ongoing Investigations
The seizure underscores the persistent challenges faced by enforcement agencies in combating alcohol smuggling, particularly across state borders. The involvement of a driver from Rajasthan suggests a wider network, and authorities are likely to pursue further investigations to uncover the supply chain and those behind this illicit operation. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of stringent excise controls and vigilance in preventing the circulation of unauthorized and potentially hazardous liquor in the market.
