Maharashtra Excise Department Intercepts Major Interstate Liquor Smuggling Operation
The Maharashtra Excise Department has successfully intercepted a significant interstate liquor smuggling operation, seizing foreign liquor valued at over Rs 11 lakh near the border with Madhya Pradesh. Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar provided detailed information about this enforcement action during a session of the Maharashtra Legislative Council on Monday.
Details of the December 2025 Seizure
According to official records, the seizure occurred on December 21, 2025, near the Bramhani railway crossing in Amgaon taluka of Gondia district. The contraband, with an estimated value of Rs 11,32,108, was being transported from neighboring Madhya Pradesh when excise officials intercepted the smuggling attempt.
One individual was apprehended at the scene and subsequently arrested in connection with the illegal transportation. Authorities registered a formal case under the stringent provisions of the Maharashtra Prohibition Act, which governs the regulation and prohibition of alcohol in the state.
Border Vulnerability and Enforcement Measures
Deputy CM Pawar explained that Gondia district presents particular challenges for law enforcement due to its geographical position. The district shares borders with both Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, creating multiple entry points that smugglers attempt to exploit for interstate liquor transportation.
However, Pawar clarified that despite this vulnerability, the December 21 incident represented the only registered smuggling offense in Gondia district during the period under review. She further noted that legal liquor sales within the district have remained unaffected by smuggling activities.
Comprehensive Anti-Smuggling Infrastructure
To combat interstate liquor smuggling effectively, the excise department has implemented a multi-layered enforcement strategy:
- One permanent border checkpost operational at Deori
- Two temporary checkposts functioning at Ghattgemani and Amgaon (Malhi)
- Regular operations conducted by executive units and flying squads
- Coordinated surveillance and interception activities across border areas
Broader Enforcement Statistics
The December seizure represents just one component of a broader enforcement campaign. Between April 1, 2025, and February 15, 2026, excise authorities in Gondia district registered a total of 1,320 cases related to liquor violations.
During this period, enforcement actions resulted in:
- 1,095 individuals arrested for various offenses
- Contraband worth approximately Rs 2.40 crore seized
- Preventive action taken in 167 cases under Section 93 of the Maharashtra Prohibition Act
- Bond amounts totaling Rs 32.25 lakh recovered from offenders
The comprehensive data demonstrates the excise department's ongoing commitment to enforcing prohibition laws and disrupting illegal liquor networks operating across state borders.
