Huge Cache of Bhutan Liquor Seized in Joint Excise–SSB Raid; Driver Escapes
A joint operation by the Birpara Excise Circle and SSB personnel from Lankapara on Friday evening led to the seizure of a significant quantity of Bhutan-made liquor that was being transported illegally.
Officials said they acted on specific intelligence indicating that a Maruti van was being used to smuggle Bhutan liquor into the region. Following the tip-off, teams from the Excise Department and the SSB launched a coordinated raid that continued from early evening until about 8 PM.
During the operation, officers intercepted a Maruti van and searched it thoroughly. The raid resulted in the recovery of:
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43 cartons of Bhutan whisky
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17 cartons of Bhutan beer
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1 carton of Reserve whisky
The van used in the smuggling attempt was also taken into custody.
The driver, however, managed to escape. Upon spotting the officials, he abandoned the vehicle and fled the area before he could be apprehended.
As per the Excise Department, the combined value of the seized liquor and the vehicle is estimated at ₹18,56,300.
Further investigation is underway to identify the individuals linked to the smuggling network and determine the source of the illegal consignment.
