The state Taxes and Excise department has succeeded in seizing 1,16,621 liters of illegal liquor from Sirmaur, Solan, Hamirpur, Kangra, Kullu and Mandi districts in last two weeks.
State Taxes and Excise Commissioner Dr. Yunus today disclosed that the department has established task force teams and flying squads across all districts of the state. As many as 59 teams are engaged in diligent surveillance and enforcement operations throughout the state.
He said the department was also working in close coordination with the nodal officers of neighbouring states and the task force was ensuring strict action against individuals engaged in the illicit storage of liquor in border areas of the state.
The Commissioner revealed that on the basis of information received, the departmental team conducted an extensive search operation spanning approximately 13 kilometers in the dense forests of Khara village in Paonta Sahib of district Sirmaur. The team seized drums of illicit liquor from various locations. The team destroyed around 61,000 liters of illegal country liquor having estimated value of Rs. 61 lakh.
Dr. Yunus said the department confiscated 63,515 liters illicit liquor in Sirmaur district, 10,824 liters in Hamirpur district, 18,020 liters in Solan district, 2,316 liters in Kangra district, 1,271 liters in Kullu district, 1,526 liters in Shimla district and 768 liters in Mandi district. Besides, 324 liters of illicit liquor was seized in Chamba district also.
He informed that recently the department has seized three kilograms of silver valued at Rs.2.49 lakh in the State.
With a view to ensure free and fair elections and thwart any illicit activity in the state, the department was taking strict action against those involved in illegal liquor trade by in close coordination with the excise officials of the neighboring states and the state Police.
He has urged the citizens to report any such activity through designated channels including the toll-free number 18001808062, landline No-0177-2620426, Whatsapp at 94183-31426, or by sending an e-mail to controlroomhq@gmail.com.
