Vadodara Police Crack Down on Liquor Smuggling Network
In a significant operation, the Prevention of Crime Branch (PCB) in Vadodara successfully dismantled a liquor-smuggling racket on Thursday, leading to the arrest of two individuals on the Delhi–Mumbai Expressway. Acting on precise intelligence, authorities intercepted a truck near Fajalpur village, uncovering a large consignment of illicit alcohol.
Details of the Interception and Seizure
The PCB team, after receiving a tip-off about a truck transporting a substantial load of liquor, maintained vigilant surveillance along the expressway. They stopped the vehicle, which was en route from Bharuch to Ahmedabad, and conducted a thorough inspection. During the search, police recovered approximately 9,000 tins of liquor, with an estimated value exceeding Rs 34.87 lakh.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Jodharam Jaat, the truck driver from Rajasthan, and Bhagirath Jaat, who was accompanying him. Both were taken into custody immediately at the scene. Further investigation revealed that Suraj Khan was responsible for loading the liquor consignment, while Sutraram Jaat acted as a middleman; both have been named as accused in the case.
Additional Evidence and Ongoing Efforts
In addition to the liquor, police seized mobile phones and cash from the arrested duo. Authorities are actively pursuing the remaining members of the smuggling network to completely dismantle the operation. This bust underscores the persistent efforts of law enforcement to combat illegal activities in the region.
Expressway Emerges as a Smuggling Corridor
Police officials noted that the Delhi–Mumbai Expressway is increasingly becoming a favored route for bootleggers to transport liquor. This trend is attributed to its ability to bypass multiple checkpoints along National Highway 48, where enforcement measures have been intensified. In a related incident on February 19, police intercepted another truck on the same expressway, seizing liquor worth over Rs 80 lakh and detaining the driver, Shinderpal Singh Jaat, for questioning.
The repeated use of this expressway highlights the challenges faced by authorities in curbing smuggling activities, as criminals adapt their strategies to evade detection. The Vadodara PCB's latest operation marks a critical step in addressing this issue and sends a strong message against such illicit trade.
