Delhi’s Liquor Smuggling Racket Exposed: Truck Loaded with Illicit Booze Caught

Delhi Police uncovered a major liquor smuggling operation in the Bawana industrial area, seizing a mini truck packed with 5,200 quarters of illegal liquor. The raid, conducted by the Anti-Auto Theft Squad (AATS) of the Outer North District at around 8:30 PM left authorities stunned by the sheer scale of the haul. Concealed in neatly stacked boxes, the illicit booze was destined for dry states like Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. This bust exposes the audacity of smuggling networks operating in the capital, prompting a rigorous investigation.

Details of the Operation

Acting on a tip-off about suspicious activity, the AATS team intercepted the mini truck on a secluded road in Bawana. Upon inspection, officers discovered 104 cartons, each containing 50 quarters of locally brewed liquor, unfit for legal sale. The driver, identified as 28-year-old Rajesh Kumar from Sonipat, was arrested and charged under the Delhi Excise Act. Initial interrogations revealed the liquor was sourced from illicit distilleries in Haryana, intended for black-market distribution in neighboring states. The seizure, valued at approximately ₹25 lakh, marks one of the largest in Delhi this year.

Unraveling the Syndicate

The bust points to a well-organized smuggling racket exploiting Delhi’s proximity to dry states. Police suspect a network of suppliers, transporters, and distributors, with links to illegal distilleries across state borders. The Outer North District police have formed a special team to trace the supply chain, targeting key figures behind the operation. Raids are underway in suspected hideouts, and authorities are examining financial trails to dismantle the syndicate. The case highlights the challenges of curbing liquor trafficking, which thrives on high profit margins in prohibited regions.

A Call for Vigilance

This seizure underscores Delhi Police’s commitment to tackling illegal trade but also reveals the persistent threat of smuggling. Authorities are intensifying border checks and collaborating with neighboring states to curb such activities. The Bawana bust serves as a warning to traffickers, signaling that Delhi’s law enforcement remains vigilant in safeguarding public safety and disrupting criminal networks.