Excise staff step up raids on IDL in border areas

Srikakulam: The district prohibition and excise (P&E) officials have intensified raids and vigil on illicitly distilled liquor (IDL) and violation of licence rules. Border areas with Odisha State located in Gajapathi, Rayagadha and Ganjam are known for IDL making and transporting into Srikakulam district.

In the wake of elections, to prevent the IDL transportation, the officials have intensified raids. From January to till March 22 this year, the officials booked 179 cases and arrested 132 persons, seized nine vehicles regarding IDL making, transportation, selling and destroyed 3,386.03 litres of IDL. Relating to IDL, in total 223 cases were booked for preparation and storage of fermented jiggery wash (FJW) which is a key material for manufacturing of IDL and destroyed 1,56,770 litres of FJW.

Regarding belt shops, they booked 424 cases, arrested 423 persons and seized 700.29 litres of IML and 164.81 litres of beer. Another 51 cases booked for violation of licence norms. The officials cancelled Ravi Teja Bar and Restaurant's licence in Amudalavalasa town and in Palasa town, they cancelled Bhanu Wines licence. Another two cases were registered for dilution of liquor and one case regarding sales of non-duty paid liquor (NDPL).

Speaking to The Hans India, Prohibition and Excise Deputy Commissioner S Sukesh said the department has registered 887 cases and arrested 618 persons. Bound over cases were registered against 807 persons regarding IDL and belt shops management, he stated and added "We have conducted joint meetings with Odisha State officials and conducting joint raids also."