Pune: Fake Alcohol Worth ₹5.96 Lakhs Seized in Chinchwad, Ahead of Festive Season

State Excise Department nabs two individuals repackaging low-quality liquor as premium scotch.

In a major operation ahead of the festive season, the Pune division of the State Excise Department seized counterfeit foreign liquor worth ₹5.96 lakh from Chinchwad on Friday. Acting on intelligence inputs, officials intercepted an auto-rickshaw near Hotel Eagle Garden and detained two suspects: Dhanaji Jetha Patel and auto driver Babasaheb Shivaji Dhaktode.

The rickshaw was found carrying 24 bottles of fake scotch whiskey, disguised in premium brand bottles, intended for distribution.

Further investigation revealed that the fake liquor was sourced from Marunji village. A raid on Patel’s residence in the Spring Woods Society, Mulshi, uncovered:

• 18 sealed bottles of premium scotch whiskey.

• 110 empty bottles of branded scotch.

• Labels, seals, and materials used for repackaging.

The total value of the seized goods, including a motorcycle and the auto-rickshaw, amounted to ₹5,96,510.

Charan Singh Rajput, State Excise Superintendent, confirmed that Patel had been filling low-quality liquor into empty branded bottles and selling them as premium scotch. Authorities suspect he may have connections with a larger network operating outside Maharashtra, and further investigations are underway.

The State Excise Department warned the public about the dangers of consuming counterfeit or adulterated alcohol, especially during Christmas and New Year celebrations. Fake alcohol can pose severe health risks and lead to fatal consequences.

Citizens were advised to purchase liquor only from licensed sellers and report any suspicious activities involving illicit alcohol.

The department urged residents to report illegal liquor manufacturing or trade through the following channels:

Helpline: 020-26127321, Toll-free Number: 18002339999, WhatsApp: 8422001133

With heightened vigilance during the festive season, authorities aim to crack down on the illegal liquor trade and ensure public safety.