NewsFlash Daily™
29 March
Police raid reveals seized liquor meant for destruction was diverted and stored for illegal sale, CCTV allegedly switched off
Ramanagara: In a shocking case of corruption and public safety violation, officials tasked with preventing liquor irregularities have been accused of illegally selling expired alcohol in Ramanagara district. A police operation by the Aizur Police Station has exposed a well-organised racket involving seized liquor.
Expired Liquor Found at Supervisor’s Residence
During the raid, police recovered 20 boxes of expired liquor from the residence of Suresh (52), a supervisor with the Karnataka State Beverages Corporation Limited. The liquor, belonging to multiple brands, had reportedly been confiscated during earlier enforcement raids.
Instead of being destroyed as per protocol, the seized stock was allegedly diverted and stored for illegal resale, raising serious concerns about internal malpractice.
CCTV Allegedly Disabled to Facilitate Diversion
Investigations suggest that the liquor was transported from a KSBCL warehouse near Archakarahalli. Shockingly, officials allegedly switched off CCTV cameras to avoid detection while moving the stock.
Out of nearly 640 confiscated boxes, at least 20 boxes were secretly removed and stored at the accused’s residence.
Plan to Sell Expired Liquor in Rural Areas
Sources indicate that there was a plan to sell the expired liquor in rural regions, putting public health at serious risk. The seized stock included brands like:
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UB Expert Premium Strong Beer
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Kingfisher Beer
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Ultra Premium Strong Beer
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Magic Moments Vodka
Officials confirmed that the liquor had expired 3–4 months ago, and clear instructions had been issued by the Excise Department to destroy it.
Illegal Operation Running for Years
Preliminary findings suggest that this illegal diversion and resale racket may have been ongoing for several years, allegedly involving multiple warehouse staff and officials.
Accused Arrested, Released on Bail
The Aizur police arrested supervisor Suresh in connection with the case. However, he was later released on station bail, and further investigation is ongoing to identify other individuals involved.
Serious Questions on Departmental Accountability
The incident has sent shockwaves through the department, raising critical questions about oversight, accountability, and internal controls within the liquor distribution system.
It also serves as a wake-up call for consumers, highlighting the dangers of unregulated alcohol sales and potential health risks from expired products.
Authorities are expected to expand the probe and take strict action against those found guilty in the scam.
