Team Goemkarponn
VASCO: In a major operation, the Vasco excise department seized Indian-made foreign liquor (IMFL) worth ₹1.34 crores from two abandoned trucks at the Sancoale Industrial Estate parking lot on Wednesday. The trucks, valued at ₹50 lakhs, were also confiscated as part of the raid.
Inspector Rameez Mulla, leading the operation, revealed that the discovery was made during routine patrolling on Tuesday. “Our team noticed two trucks parked suspiciously in the area. Upon closer inspection, we detected a strong smell of liquor emanating from the vehicles,” said Mulla.
Following this, the department stationed officers in the area to monitor any activity around the trucks. However, no one returned to claim the vehicles. “After consulting with our superiors, we conducted a raid and uncovered large quantities of liquor stored in the trucks,” Mulla added.
The confiscated goods included IMFL 180 ml bottles of Royal Select and Impression Whisky, and 750 ml bottles of Evergreen Whisky.
The total value of the seized liquor is estimated to be ₹1.34 crores, with the trucks valued at ₹50 lakhs.
Sources suggest the liquor may have been intended for illegal distribution during the ongoing Maharashtra Assembly elections. However, investigations are ongoing to confirm the connection.
The excise department has assured stringent action against individuals involved in the illegal transportation of alcohol. Inspector Mulla emphasized, “We are committed to preventing such violations and will continue to monitor sensitive areas to curb illegal activities.”