Illegal liquor bottles seized in train near Arsikere

Chikkamagaluru/ Hassan: As part of the ongoing Operation Satark drive to curb illegal transportation of contraband items through railway premises and trains, a joint checking operation was conducted under Arsikere jurisdiction. The officials seized 12 bottles of illegal liquor.

Acting on a tip-off, a team comprising officials of the Railway Protection Force, Arsikere, and the excise department, Arsikere, carried out a surprise check on Train No. 17310 Vasco Da Gama-Yesvantpur Express. The checking was conducted between Ajjampura and Arsikere railway stations against illegal transportation of contraband items.

During the inspection between Banavara and Arsikere railway stations, the team noticed an unclaimed plastic bag kept near the front general coach. On enquiry, none of the passengers claimed ownership of the bag. Suspecting illegal transportation, the bag was secured following necessary safety procedures and subsequently checked.

Upon examination, the bag was found to contain 12 bottles of liquor of various brands, collectively valued at approximately Rs 5,123. The seized liquor bottles were documented and photographed, and after completing the required legal formalities, the items were handed over to the inspector of excise, Arsikere, for further action.

The excise department, Arsikere, has registered a case under the provisions of the Karnataka Excise Act, 1965, and investigation was taken up.