In a significant enforcement action, the Excise Department in Balodabazar has seized 135 bulk liters of illegal Desi Masala liquor and a four-wheeler. The operation was part of an ongoing effort to combat the illegal alcohol trade as directed by the state government. Based on intelligence, authorities searched a white i-20 vehicle on the Chourenga to Darchura road. This search resulted in the recovery of 750 pouches of Desi Masala liquor, equivalent to 135 bulk liters. The individuals involved were identified as Monu alias Girit Verma, residing in Chourenga village, Simga, and Rakesh Kumar Sen. The seized liquor was found in 11 plastic bags, each containing 50 pouches, and one blue bag holding 200 pouches. The accused were arrested in front of witnesses. The estimated market value of the seized liquor is ₹75,000, and the seized i-20 vehicle is valued at ₹5 lakh. The accused now face charges under sections 34(2), 59(k), and 36 of the Chhattisgarh Excise Act, 1915. Legal proceedings have commenced. The operation was spearheaded by Assistant District Excise Officer Jalesh Kumar Singh, with support from Excise Sub-Inspectors Manrakhan Netam and Dinesh Kumar Sahu, Excise Head Constable Radha Giri Goswami, and City Soldier Rajkumari Paikra. The District Excise Officer stated that the department would continue its vigorous enforcement against illicit liquor.
