Over 2,200 People Arrested for Illicit Liquor Trafficking During Dussehra in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: In a major crackdown on illicit liquor trafficking during the Dussehra festival, Odisha Excise officials have achieved a significant milestone by uncovering a total of 2,594 cases and apprehending 2,202 individuals involved in the trade. The operation, which took place between October 10 and 24, was aimed at curbing the trafficking of illicit liquor, duplicate, and non-duty-paid foreign liquor.

During this intensive drive, law enforcement confiscated a substantial amount of contraband, including 92,958 litres of illicitly distilled liquor, 248.34 litres of duplicate Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL), 15 litres of non-duty paid foreign liquor, 118 litres of non-duty paid country liquor, 65.85 litres of non-duty paid beer.

Additionally, 230 vehicles were impounded. The total estimated value of the seized items exceeded Rs 3 crore.

Notably, Excise Superintendents from Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Sambalpur, Bargarh, and Balasore received commendation letters for their exceptional enforcement efforts during this operation.

The Excise Directorate is maintaining a vigilant oversight of the field functionaries’ enforcement activities. The Excise Commissioner consistently conducts monthly and fortnightly reviews of all districts and EI & EB units, aiming to reinforce enforcement efforts and deter criminal activities in the region.