Pune: Major Smuggling Operation Busted In Saswad: Goa Liquor Found Hidden As Cosmetics
Pune: Major Smuggling Operation Busted In Saswad: Goa Liquor Found Hidden As Cosmetics
In a major breakthrough, State Excise officials from the Saswad Division, Pune, have uncovered a significant smuggling racket involving liquor camouflaged as cosmetics. Acting on a tip-off, inspectors carried out raids on July 10, 2024, in the Mauje Khed Shivapur village area along the Satara-Pune highway.
During the operation, a suspicious 14-wheeler truck with registration number HR 63D 8878 was stopped near Hotel Jagdamba. Upon inspection, authorities found an astounding 79,680 bottles of 180 ml and 6,480 bottles of 750 ml of Royal Blue Malt Whiskey, which were manufactured and meant for sale exclusively in Goa.
The seized liquor, valued at Rs. 1.28 crore, was being transported without the necessary documentation. Additionally, a Bharat Benz car and a mobile phone, together valued at Rs. 1.51 crore were confiscated. Sunil Chakraborty, an individual involved in the operation, was arrested.
Legal proceedings have been initiated by the Saswad Department under sections 65(a)(e), 80, 81, 83, 90, 103, and 108 of the Maharashtra Prohibition Act, 1949. This case highlights the state’s stringent measures against illicit liquor trade and reinforces the commitment to enforcing legal regulations and curbing illegal activities in the region.
The successful operation was the result of the coordinated efforts of inspectors Pradeep Mohite, Ram Supekar, Rohit Mane, Dhaval Golekar, Sagar Durve, Sandeep Mandvekar, and personnel Bhagwat Rathore, Tatya Shinde, Sameer Padwal, Akshay Mhetre, Ranjit Chavan, Ram Chawre, Sunil Kudale, Dattatray Pilawre, and Ankush Kamble. Investigations are ongoing to uncover further details of the case.
