Massive Liquor Seizure: Gujarat's SMC Dismantles Illegal Racket Near Sanand
Synopsis
In a major crackdown, Gujarat's State Monitoring Cell seized liquor worth Rs 81.92 lakh near Chharodi village, uncovering a significant illegal supply chain. This operation highlights ongoing efforts against bootlegging in the state.
Key Takeaways
SMC's significant seizure highlights ongoing efforts against illegal liquor trade.
Operation exposed an organized network operating in Gujarat.
Authorities continue to pursue additional suspects involved in the trafficking.
Recent operations indicate a proactive approach by law enforcement.
Prohibition laws remain a contentious issue in the state.
Ahmedabad, April 2 (NationPress) During a significant operation, the State Monitoring Cell (SMC) confiscated foreign liquor valued at approximately Rs 81.92 lakh near Chharodi village along the Sanand-Viramgam highway in Ahmedabad Rural, officials disclosed on Thursday. This action aimed to dismantle an alleged illegal supply chain.
Investigators reported the recovery of 11,332 bottles of imported liquor from an open area owned by Mansi Industries. The liquor was traced back to distilleries in Rajasthan and Punjab and was allegedly transported to Gujarat for unauthorized sale, breaching the state's prohibition regulations.
Police indicated that the raid was executed based on reliable intelligence regarding a consignment being offloaded at the location. This operation revealed an organized scheme involving the transportation and storage of liquor for subsequent distribution.
In addition to the liquor, authorities seized three vehicles—including a dumper and cars—worth about Rs 33 lakh, a mobile phone valued at Rs 5,000, and Rs 2,410 in cash. The total worth of the seized assets is Rs 1,15,00,192.
One suspect, identified as Jummakhan Pathan, a resident of Chharodi, was detained at the site and later transferred to the Sanand GIDC police station. Authorities noted that the alleged mastermind behind this network, Imran alias Obama Malek from Pipli in Dasada, Surendranagar district, is currently at large.
Other individuals implicated in the case include Bilkishbanu Malek, Sohil Vaghela, and Abbas Vaghela, among several others suspected of transporting the liquor. Police are also pursuing five to six unidentified individuals, including vehicle owners and drivers.
Officials confirmed that a case has been lodged under various provisions of the Gujarat Prohibition Act, with ongoing investigations aimed at uncovering the broader network and supply chain.
Recently, the SMC has conducted numerous similar operations throughout Gujarat. Last month, for instance, a raid in Chavalaj village led to the confiscation of over 25,000 bottles of liquor, alongside vehicles and other assets valued at over Rs 1.35 crore. Earlier, in a separate operation in Surat’s Puna area, the SMC seized around 5,200 bottles of foreign liquor worth about Rs 19 lakh from a residential property linked to a bootlegging operation.
Point of View
The recent operation by Gujarat's State Monitoring Cell against illegal liquor trafficking underscores the state's commitment to enforcing prohibition laws. The seizure not only reflects the ongoing battle against organized crime but also raises questions about the effectiveness of current regulations and enforcement strategies.
NationPress
14 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was seized in the Gujarat raid?
The raid resulted in the seizure of foreign liquor worth approximately Rs 81.92 lakh, along with vehicles valued at Rs 33 lakh.
Who was arrested during the operation?
Jummakhan Pathan, a resident of Chharodi, was arrested at the scene.
What is the status of the alleged kingpin?
The alleged kingpin, Imran alias Obama Malek, is currently absconding.
How many bottles of liquor were confiscated?
A total of 11,332 bottles of foreign liquor were confiscated during the raid.
What legal action is being taken?
A case has been registered under various sections of the Gujarat Prohibition Act, with investigations ongoing.
