Major Blow to Illicit Liquor Trade in Patna
In a decisive move against the illegal liquor trade, Patna district authorities have arrested nine people and confiscated a significant quantity of illicit alcohol. The operation, which took place in the Kankarbagh area, marks a significant enforcement action under the state's stringent prohibition laws.
Tip-Off Leads to Swift Action
Acting on specific intelligence regarding an illegal country-made liquor business operating from slums near the Bahadurpur Housing Colony, District Magistrate Thiyagrajan SM constituted a special task force. The tip-off pointed to activities within the jurisdiction of the Agamkuan police station, prompting immediate planning.
The raiding team was a multi-departmental force, including the Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) executive officer, the excise superintendent, the station house officer (SHO), and other key officials. This coordinated effort ensured a comprehensive crackdown on the illicit operation.
Raids Uncover Illegal Setup on Government Land
During the inspection and subsequent raid, the team discovered that the illegal business was being run from encroached government land. Officials not only made arrests but also cleared the unauthorized encroachment, reclaiming the public property.
The haul from the operation was substantial. Authorities seized approximately 66 litres of illegal country-made liquor, effectively dismantling this local supply chain. The nine individuals taken into custody were identified as:
- Indal Manjhi (40)
- Jitendra Manjhi (25)
- Guddu Manjhi (23)
- Sunil Pandit (40)
- Prabhat Ranjan Prasad (45)
- Anil Kumar Mukhiya (28)
- Bittu Kumar (24)
- Ramanuj Manjhi (35)
- Mukesh Kumar (52)
All arrested accused were subsequently sent to jail.
Administration Vows Zero Tolerance
District Magistrate Thiyagrajan SM emphasized the administration's unwavering commitment to enforcing the prohibition policy. He stated that strict instructions have been issued to all concerned officials to ensure the effective implementation of the ban on liquor.
"No form of illegal activity will be tolerated in the district," the DM asserted. He warned that stringent legal action will be taken against anyone found guilty of violating the law. This raid sends a clear message that the authorities are actively monitoring and acting against bootlegging networks, especially those operating in densely populated residential areas like Kankarbagh.
The successful operation highlights the continued focus on curbing the manufacture and sale of illicit liquor in Bihar, where prohibition has been in effect for several years.
