Initial Accident Theory Dismissed
The deaths of two illicit liquor smugglers in Ludhiana, initially believed to be accidental, have been reclassified as planned killings following a police investigation. The victims, Vikasdeep Singh and Akashdeep Singh, died when their car plunged into the Sirhind Feeder Canal in Samrala on July 24. Authorities now allege that the incident was orchestrated by associates of a local liquor contractor.
The Alleged Conspiracy
According to the police, the two men were transporting 50 boxes of illicit liquor belonging to Sandeep Kumar, a Faridkot resident who was arrested under the Excise Act. They were traveling in an Innova, while Sandeep Kumar drove ahead in an SUV. The complaint, filed by Rimpi Singh—father of Vikasdeep—stated that a Bolero belonging to a liquor contractor from the Samrala area deliberately struck their vehicle, causing it to veer into the canal. The impact killed both occupants on the spot.
Police Action and Charges
The Samrala police have registered a case under Sections 105 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder) and 61(2) (criminal conspiracy) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), along with relevant provisions of the Excise Act. The Bolero driver and other associates of the liquor contractor are named as accused. Additionally, the two deceased individuals have been booked posthumously under the Excise Act for their involvement in the illicit liquor trade.
Quotes from Authorities
Samrala SHO Inspector Harwinder Singh stated, “The two smugglers were carrying Sandeep’s illicit liquor and were hit by men of a liquor contractor from the Samrala area, as illicit liquor was being transported in the Innova.” He confirmed that the initial classification as an accident was revised after the victims’ families raised suspicions, prompting a deeper probe.
The case highlights the ongoing issue of illicit liquor smuggling in Punjab, often linked to turf wars between contractors. Sandeep Kumar remains in custody, while the search for the Bolero driver and other suspects continues.
