In a major crackdown on illegal liquor smuggling, a team from the excise department in Motihari successfully intercepted a truck and seized a large consignment of foreign alcohol worth approximately Rs 30 lakh on Sunday. The operation was conducted based on specific intelligence inputs.
Tip-Off Leads to Major Interception Near Madhuban
Acting on a crucial tip-off, excise officials set up a check and intercepted the suspicious truck near the Madhuban area. The vehicle was reportedly coming from the neighbouring state of Uttar Pradesh. Upon a thorough search, the officials made a startling discovery.
The truck, which outwardly appeared to be carrying only fodder, was found to have 100 cartons of premium foreign liquor cleverly concealed within the animal feed. This method of concealment was a deliberate attempt to evade detection at checkpoints and bypass the excise regulations.
Investigation Underway to Unravel Smuggling Network
Excise Inspector Shivendra Kumar confirmed the seizure and stated that a detailed investigation has been launched. The primary focus of the probe is to trace the intended destination of the illicit consignment and identify all individuals involved in the smuggling racket.
"We are actively investigating to find out where this liquor was being transported and who was supposed to receive it," Inspector Kumar said. The officials had prior information about a truck with a Uttar Pradesh registration number transporting a large liquor consignment in the Pakaridayal area, which led to the successful operation.
Seizure Highlights Cross-Border Smuggling Concerns
This incident underscores the ongoing challenges of cross-border smuggling activities in the region. The seizure of the truck along with the expensive foreign liquor represents a significant financial blow to the smuggling network. Such operations are critical for state revenue and for maintaining law and order.
The excise department's swift action based on intelligence demonstrates their vigilance. The estimated value of the seized liquor, around Rs 30 lakh, indicates the scale of the illegal operation. Authorities continue to investigate the supply chain and the recipients to dismantle the network completely.
