Saraikela: The Saraikela-Kharsawan District Excise Department launched a major operation on Saturday against the production and trade of illicit Mahua liquor. The team conducted raids at separate locations in Jamjoda (under Gamharia police station limits) and Sapda (under Adityapur police station limits). During the operation, large quantities of *Java-Mahua* (fermented base for liquor), country-made Mahua liquor, and materials used in production were seized.
Three individuals involved in the illicit liquor trade were arrested during the raids. Additionally, a scooter used for transporting the liquor was confiscated at the scene. The Excise Department team destroyed the seized *Java-Mahua*, prepared country liquor, and production materials on the spot.
Excise Sub-Inspector Sonu Kumar stated that a continuous campaign is being conducted across the district against the manufacture, storage, and sale of illicit liquor. He added that individuals linked to the illegal liquor trade are being identified, and action is being taken against them under the Excise Act. The department will continue to conduct raids on such locations in the future.
Sub-Inspectors Mahendra Ravidas and Saudagar Pandit, along with other Excise Department officials and Home Guard personnel, participated in the operation. The department’s sustained action has caused panic among those involved in the illicit liquor trade in the Gamharia and Adityapur areas.
