Cops bust illegal alcohol store operating in guise of grocery shop, seize booze worth 1.2 lakh

In a significant crackdown on illegal liquor trade, the Patiram police station in Dakshin Dinajpur district successfully raided a grocery store operating as a front for illicit alcohol sales. The establishment, located near the Bolla Raksha Kali Temple, had reportedly been running this clandestine business for a long time, outwardly appearing as a regular provision store while discreetly selling various types of liquor from within.

Acting on a confidential tip-off, Patiram police launched an operation on Tuesday midnight, targeting the house of the grocery merchant identified as Gaurav Adhikari. The raid proved successful, leading to the discovery and seizure of a large quantity of both domestic and foreign liquor. The estimated market value of the recovered alcohol is approximately 1 lakh 20 thousand.

The operation was meticulously planned and executed under the leadership of Bolla Fakirparat Patiram Police Station OC Satkar Sangbo. Despite the considerable haul of liquor recovered from the house, the police were unable to apprehend the primary accused, Gaurav Adhikari, who reportedly fled the premises as soon as the law enforcement officials arrived.

Authorities are now conducting a thorough investigation to determine if any other individuals are involved in this illegal liquor trade, beyond the absconding businessman. The focus is not just on the immediate seizure but also on dismantling the larger network that might be facilitating such illicit activities in the area.