In a significant operation, the Panchmahal Local Crime Branch (LCB) has seized a large quantity of foreign liquor worth ₹36.24 lakhs from the village of Viraniya in Morva (H). The operation took place under the guidance of Inspector N.L. Desai of the LCB and resulted in the arrest of two individuals.
The LCB had been monitoring illegal activities related to liquor sales. During their operation, Sub-Inspector R.N. Patel received a tip-off about the illicit liquor being stored in the homes of two locals, Girish alias Kiro Chhatrasinh Rathod and Balvantbhai Sardarbhai Rathod.
Acting on this information, the LCB team, along with local police, conducted a raid in Viraniya. They discovered a total of 15,912 bottles of foreign liquor, including beer tins. The total market value of the seized liquor is estimated to be ₹36,24,432.
The two accused have been identified as Girish Rathod, who resides in Rathod Faliya, and Balvantbhai Rathod from Pandor Faliya, both in the Morva (H) area. Legal action has been initiated against them under various sections of the Prohibition Act at the Morva police station.
This action comes as part of the state’s ongoing efforts to enforce the prohibition law more effectively. It highlights the police’s commitment to combating illegal liquor trade in the region.
Residents of Viraniya and surrounding areas have expressed their anger towards such illegal activities and have called for stricter enforcement of liquor laws. The local community is concerned about the impact of such operations on their village’s reputation.
The police suspect that this illegal liquor was initially intended for local supply, but further investigations may reveal wider distribution networks extending to nearby towns and districts. Authorities are looking into whether there are additional individuals involved in this racket.
The police action has raised awareness in the area about the dangers and legal implications of illegal liquor trade. The success of this operation also shows the effectiveness of the police’s intelligence and coordination in tackling such crimes. The authorities are determined to follow up on this case to uncover the full extent of the operation and any other potential accomplices involved.
In conclusion, this seizure not only reinforces the commitment to the prohibition laws in Gujarat but also serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against illegal activities in rural areas. The community remains hopeful that with continued police vigilance, such incidents can be reduced significantly.