The Thane excise department has successfully dismantled an interstate smuggling network that allegedly used forged medical invoices to transport large quantities of foreign liquor. The contraband, valued at Rs 1.7 crore, was cleverly concealed inside containers labeled as pharmaceutical cargo.
Operation Details
Acting on a tip-off, a flying squad intercepted a container truck traveling on the Mumbai-Nashik Highway near the Kharegaon toll plaza on Tuesday evening. Officials revealed that the liquor was manufactured in Goa and was being illegally transported to other states using fabricated documentation. The truck driver, identified as Pargat Singh, and another individual, Amritbir Singh, were arrested at the scene.
Recovery and Arrests
Pravin Tambe, the excise superintendent of Thane, stated, "We intercepted the truck around 6:30 PM following a tip-off and discovered a large quantity of foreign liquor concealed inside boxes. A total of 1,450 boxes, amounting to 12,528 liters, were recovered. The operation was carried out under the guidance of senior officials, with a team of inspectors and staff executing the raid."
Investigation Ongoing
Officials suspect the involvement of a larger interstate smuggling network. Further investigation is underway to uncover the full extent of the racket, including possible links to other states and individuals. The excise department is also probing how the fake medical invoices were generated and who else might be involved in the conspiracy.
This bust highlights the growing sophistication of smuggling operations that exploit legitimate cargo routes. The authorities remain vigilant and have urged the public to report any suspicious activities to help curb such illegal practices.
