Bokaro Excise Officials Bust Major Fake Liquor Manufacturing Unit
In a significant crackdown, excise officials in Bokaro conducted a raid on Wednesday night, seizing a large quantity of spurious Indian-Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) from an illegal manufacturing unit located under the Jaridih police station limits. The operation, which took place in Roriya village, resulted in the confiscation of 534.6 litres of fake liquor, packed in 1,800 bottles, along with 900 litres of spirit stored in 18 jerry cans.
Details of the Seizure and Illegal Operations
The raid uncovered not only the spurious liquor but also a substantial amount of materials used in the counterfeit production process. According to Bokaro deputy commissioner Ajay Nath Jha, the team confiscated a large quantity of counterfeit excise adhesive labels (EALs), brand stickers, bottle caps, empty bottles, and caramel colouring agents. Jha stated that the illegal unit was actively engaged in bottling and packaging fake liquor for distribution across the region, posing a serious health risk to consumers.
Legal Actions and Heightened Vigilance
Following the raid, an FIR was registered on Thursday against three individuals: Raja Babu of Kundori, Santosh Murmu of Basteji, and Durga Charan Hansdah of Roriya villages. They have been charged under relevant sections of the Excise Act. The operation is part of heightened vigilance being maintained across the district in anticipation of the upcoming civic body polls on February 23 and the Holi festivities early next month. Excise officials emphasized that such measures are crucial to prevent illegal activities during sensitive periods.
This crackdown highlights the ongoing efforts by authorities to curb the production and distribution of spurious alcohol, ensuring public safety ahead of key events.