In a significant crackdown on food adulteration, the Tonk police's District Special Team (DST), in collaboration with Diggi station police, conducted a raid on Tuesday at a factory located in Diggi town. The factory was allegedly involved in the large-scale production of adulterated milk, utilizing harmful substances such as soybean oil, Dalda ghee, and various chemical powders. This illicit operation reportedly supplied approximately 80,000 litres of the tainted milk daily to markets across Jaipur, Ajmer, and Tonk, posing a severe health risk to consumers.
Massive Seizure and Arrests Made During Raid
The police team executed the raid with precision, resulting in the seizure of substantial evidence. They confiscated 5,500 litres of the adulterated milk, along with five pickup vehicles and one milk tanker used for transportation. Additionally, materials essential to the fraudulent production process were seized, including 2,100 litres of soybean oil, 500 litres of Dalda ghee, 550 kg of milk powder, 2,500 kg of lactose, and 105 kg of caustic soda. These items highlight the industrial scale of the operation.
Details of the Arrested Individuals
During the raid, police arrested five individuals who were present at the factory site. The investigation revealed that the factory was operated by Sonu Yadav, a native of Bahrod, Haryana. The arrested persons have been identified as Kalu, 22, a resident of Tonk; and Raju, 21, Mahipal, 22, Shivraj, 25, and Omprakash, 45, all residents of Ajmer. Their involvement underscores the organized nature of this criminal enterprise.
Modus Operandi of the Adulteration Racket
According to police statements, the accused employed a deceptive method to produce the adulterated milk. They mixed milk powder and lactose with water to mimic the appearance of genuine milk. To prevent spoilage and extend shelf life, caustic soda was added, while Dalda ghee and soybean oil were used to artificially increase the fat content, making the product seem more authentic. This dangerous concoction not only defrauded consumers but also posed serious health hazards.
Legal Actions and Food Safety Involvement
Tonk SP Rajesh Kumar Meena confirmed that Diggi police have registered a formal case in connection with this matter. In a move to ensure thorough investigation, a team from the food safety department collected samples of the adulterated milk from the factory for further analysis. This collaboration aims to strengthen the case against the perpetrators and ensure compliance with food safety regulations.
The bust of this adulterated milk racket in Bhilwara district's Diggi town marks a critical step in combating food fraud in Rajasthan. Authorities are continuing their probe to uncover any further links and prevent such illicit activities from endangering public health in the future.
