Patna, July 16 (IANS) Despite the enforcement of prohibition in Bihar, the illegal liquor trade continues to pose a challenge.
Acting on a confidential tip-off, the Prohibition and Excise Department conducted a raid at Saharsa’s old bus stand premises on Thursday, recovering a large consignment of Indian-made foreign liquor (IMFL) concealed beneath a heap of soil.
During the search operation, officials excavated the area and recovered 123 litres of liquor hidden at multiple locations. The seized liquor was reportedly packed in Officer’s Choice brand pouches.
The raid led to the arrest of two alleged liquor smugglers, while one minor was also taken into protective custody. Authorities have initiated proceedings in accordance with the Juvenile Justice Act and other applicable legal provisions.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Arvind Sah, son of late Bahadur Sah, a resident of Mahkhar Ward No. 7 under Simri Bakhtiyarpur police station in Saharsa district, and Jeetu Kumar, son of Siyaram Sah, a resident of Garhbaruari Ward No. 6 under Lokha police station in Supaul district.
The Excise Department has seized the recovered liquor and registered a case under the relevant provisions of the Bihar Prohibition and Excise Act.
Officials said the accused are being interrogated to determine the source of the liquor consignment, the intended recipients of the illegal supply, and the identities of other individuals involved in the smuggling network.
According to Excise Department officials, the operation was carried out based on specific intelligence indicating that liquor was being stored beneath a mound of soil at the old bus stand before being distributed.
The department stated that its campaign against illegal liquor production, storage, transportation, and sale will continue, adding that strict legal action will be taken against those found in violation of the state’s prohibition laws.
Bihar has enforced statewide prohibition since 2016, and authorities continue to conduct regular enforcement drives to curb the illegal manufacture and trafficking of alcoholic beverages.
–IANS
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