Excise Department Seizes Illegal Liquor Consignment, Three Smugglers Arrested Near Uttar Pradesh Border
Gopalganj: Despite the enforcement of prohibition in Bihar, attempts to smuggle liquor into the state continue. In a major crackdown, the Excise Department foiled an alleged liquor smuggling attempt in Gopalganj district, arresting three suspected smugglers near the Pakhan Check Post under the Vijayipur Police Station area. During the operation, officials recovered 44.385 liters of foreign liquor, which was allegedly being transported from neighboring Uttar Pradesh into Bihar.
Officials described the operation as a significant success in the ongoing campaign against illegal liquor trafficking. They stated that intensified surveillance and regular vehicle inspections in border areas have helped curb smuggling activities.
Special Checking Drive at Border Check Post
According to officials, the Excise Department had received information that a consignment of liquor was being transported from Uttar Pradesh into Bihar. Acting on the tip-off, a special checking drive was launched at the Pakhan Check Post in the Vijayipur area.
During the operation, officers conducted thorough inspections of vehicles entering the state. A vehicle suspected of carrying contraband was stopped for checking, and a search led to the recovery of a substantial quantity of foreign liquor.
Three Suspects Taken into Custody
During the inspection, officials questioned the three occupants of the vehicle. Their responses reportedly raised suspicion, following which they were detained for further inquiry.
After preliminary investigation, all three were arrested on charges related to illegal liquor transportation. Officials said the accused are being questioned to determine the intended destination of the consignment and to identify other individuals who may be involved in the alleged smuggling network.
44.385 Liters of Foreign Liquor Recovered
The Excise Department recovered 44.385 liters of foreign liquor from the vehicle and seized the entire consignment.
Authorities are examining the brands, packaging, and transportation method of the seized liquor to gather additional evidence and trace the broader supply chain behind the alleged smuggling operation.
Border Areas Under Strict Surveillance
Gopalganj shares a border with Uttar Pradesh, making it one of the key routes frequently targeted by liquor smugglers attempting to bring alcohol into Bihar, where prohibition remains in force.
To prevent such activities, the Excise Department, district police, and local administration have intensified surveillance in border regions. Round-the-clock vehicle inspections are being carried out at check posts and other strategic locations.
Investigation Underway
Excise officials are questioning the arrested suspects to determine where the liquor originated, who was supposed to receive the consignment, and whether a larger smuggling network is involved.
Investigators believe the interrogation may provide leads that could result in further raids and additional arrests in connection with the case.
Legal Action Under Prohibition Law
Officials stated that a case has been registered against the three accused under the Bihar Prohibition and Excise Act. The suspects will be produced before the appropriate court as part of the legal process.
If the investigation reveals links to a larger organized network, authorities said further action will be taken against all individuals involved.
Ongoing Anti-Smuggling Campaign
The district administration emphasized that regular enforcement drives are being conducted across Gopalganj to ensure effective implementation of Bihar's prohibition law. Border checkpoints, national highways, and major roads are being monitored continuously.
The Excise Department also carries out raids based on intelligence inputs to dismantle illegal liquor supply chains operating in the region.
Public Urged to Cooperate
Authorities have appealed to residents to report any information related to the illegal manufacture, transportation, or sale of liquor to the police or the Excise Department.
Officials assured the public that the identity of informants would be kept confidential and stressed that public cooperation is crucial in combating liquor smuggling.
Continued Crackdown on Smugglers
In recent months, the Excise Department has conducted several successful operations in Gopalganj and other border districts, recovering large quantities of illegal liquor and arresting individuals allegedly involved in smuggling.
Officials said these operations demonstrate the administration's commitment to strictly enforcing prohibition laws and taking firm action against those involved in the illegal liquor trade.
Administration Reaffirms Zero-Tolerance Policy
The Excise Department reiterated that there will be zero tolerance for violations of Bihar's prohibition law. Surveillance along the state's borders will continue to be strengthened, and intelligence-based operations will remain a key part of efforts to dismantle liquor smuggling networks.
The three arrested suspects remain in custody, and the investigation is ongoing. Authorities hope the case will help uncover a wider smuggling network and lead to further action against those involved in illegal liquor trafficking.
