Fatuha Excise Department Seizes 155 Cartons of Foreign Liquor Worth Around ₹1.4 Million, Smugglers Escape
Patna: In a major crackdown on illegal liquor smuggling under Bihar's prohibition law, the Excise Department achieved a significant success in the Fatuha police station area of Patna district. During a raid conducted on Friday, officials seized 155 cartons of foreign liquor with an estimated market value of around ₹1.4 million (₹14 lakh). However, the two vehicle drivers transporting the consignment managed to escape from the spot. Police and Excise Department teams have launched a search operation to trace and arrest the absconding suspects.
The seizure once again highlights the persistent attempts by liquor smugglers to bring illegal alcohol into Bihar despite the state's prohibition policy. At the same time, it reflects the continued efforts of law enforcement agencies to dismantle smuggling networks operating in the region.
Raid Conducted on a Tip-Off
According to Excise Department officials, they received confidential information that a large consignment of foreign liquor was being transported through the Fatuha area. Acting on the intelligence, a special team was formed and surveillance was intensified along suspected routes.
When officials attempted to stop the suspected vehicles, the drivers allegedly abandoned them and fled the scene. The Excise team then searched the vehicles and recovered a large quantity of foreign liquor.
155 Cartons of Foreign Liquor Recovered
During the search, officials seized 155 cartons of foreign liquor. Preliminary estimates place the value of the seized consignment at approximately ₹1.4 million.
Authorities stated that the consignment contained bottles of several premium liquor brands. A detailed inventory is being prepared, and the seized liquor has been safely stored in the department's warehouse while legal formalities are completed.
Search Operation Underway
Following the escape of the drivers, the Excise Department and local police have intensified efforts to locate and arrest them. CCTV footage from the area is being examined to identify the suspects and trace their movements.
Officials are also verifying the registration details of the vehicles and other documents to identify the owners and uncover the larger smuggling network behind the operation.
Investigators expressed confidence that the entire network would be exposed soon.
Liquor Smuggling Continues Despite Prohibition
Although Bihar has enforced complete prohibition, smugglers continue to devise new methods and routes to transport illegal liquor into the state. In many cases, consignments are brought in from neighboring states using trucks, cars, pickup vans, and other commercial vehicles.
The Excise Department said surveillance has been strengthened along border areas and major highways to prevent such illegal activities.
Excise Department Intensifies Crackdown
The Excise Department has carried out several large-scale enforcement operations across Bihar in recent months. Officials reiterated that strict action would be taken against anyone found violating the state's prohibition laws.
Regular vehicle inspections, intelligence-based raids, and the use of modern surveillance techniques are being employed to dismantle organized smuggling networks. The department has also appealed to citizens to report any information regarding illegal liquor trade to the authorities.
Police Investigating Every Angle
The Fatuha police are working closely with the Excise Department to investigate the case. Officers are trying to determine where the liquor originated, its intended destination, and whether an organized criminal syndicate is involved.
If the investigation reveals the involvement of a larger network, legal action will also be taken against all associated individuals.
Residents Welcome the Action
Local residents have welcomed the successful operation by the Excise Department. Many said that regular enforcement drives are necessary to curb illegal liquor smuggling and ensure effective implementation of the prohibition law.
Citizens also believe that strict action against liquor smugglers will help reduce crime and strengthen public confidence in law enforcement.
Legal Proceedings Initiated
The Excise Department has registered a case under the relevant provisions of the Bihar Prohibition and Excise laws. Investigators are continuing efforts to identify the absconding drivers and others connected to the smuggling operation.
Officials said that once the suspects are arrested, they will be questioned to expose the entire network. Any additional individuals found involved during the investigation will also face legal action.
Strong Message Against Liquor Smuggling
The seizure of 155 cartons of foreign liquor in Fatuha sends a clear message that the administration remains committed to enforcing Bihar's prohibition law. Authorities emphasized that no one involved in liquor smuggling will be spared and that strict legal action will be taken against all offenders.
For now, joint teams of the police and the Excise Department continue their search for the absconding drivers. Investigators are optimistic that their arrest will lead to the identification of other members of the smuggling network. The operation is being viewed as another important step in strengthening the enforcement of Bihar's prohibition policy and curbing illegal liquor trafficking in the state.
