In a significant crackdown on unauthorized liquor operations, the excise department busted an illegally functioning nightclub in Mohali's Sector 79. The raid resulted in the seizure of a substantial stock of alcohol and the registration of a formal case against the establishment's owner.
Surprise Inspection Based on Specific Inputs
Acting on specific intelligence, a team led by Excise Inspector Gurinder Pal carried out a surprise inspection at the venue. The operation was conducted under the directives of the Deputy Commissioner (Excise) for the Patiala zone and the supervision of the Assistant Commissioner (Excise) of the Ropar Range. The inspection revealed that the club was openly serving alcohol without holding a valid licence.
Seizure and Detention Details
Officials detained the person managing the establishment at the time, who was later identified as Tejinder Singh, a resident of Phase 11 in Mohali. A thorough search of the premises led to the recovery of 86 liquor bottles. The seized stock included:
- 39 bottles of various whisky brands.
- 47 bottles of wine and champagne.
All bottles were marked "For Sale in Punjab Only," confirming their intended legal market. The accused failed to produce any licence authorising the service or storage of liquor on the premises.
Legal Action and Ongoing Vigilance
The excise team took possession of the entire seized stock and initiated legal proceedings. A formal case has been registered at the Sohana police station under sections 61(1)(14) and 68(1)(14) of the Punjab Excise Act. Further investigation into the matter is currently underway.
Reiterating its zero-tolerance policy towards such violations, the excise department stated that enforcement drives against the illegal liquor trade and unlicensed clubs will continue across the district. They have also urged residents to report any similar violations promptly to help curb illegal activities.
