Tarun Karthick
Campbell Bay, 03 December 2024
In a major crackdown on illegal liquor operations, Campbell Bay Police carried out a jungle search in the Rajiv Nagar area of Great Nicobar Island on 29th November 2024. The operation, under command of SI Vinit Kumar Maurya, SHO of PS Campbell Bay, uncovered a large-scale illicit distillation setup.
The police team, including PC Bikash Sen and IRBn staff Samir Tete, Sanojit Roy, and Shyamal Ch. Das, discovered eight 50-litre jerrycans filled with Lehan, an unrefined liquor base. Approximately 200 litres of Lehan was destroyed on the spot, delivering a significant blow to the illicit liquor trade in the region.
This operation comes at a time when Campbell Bay has been grappling with an acute alcohol shortage. The local ANIIDCO liquor outlet has run out of stock due to delays in replenishment caused by the unavailability of suitable cargo vessels. The last shipment to the island contained only beer and other low-alcohol products, leading to a surge in demand for illegal alternatives.
Illegally brewed liquor poses severe health risks to consumers, as it lacks quality control during production. Methanol poisoning, a potentially fatal condition that can cause blindness or death in severe cases, remains a significant concern.
The discovery and destruction of the illegal distillation unit highlight the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to curb illicit liquor trade in remote areas like Campbell Bay. Known for its geographical isolation, the region faces unique challenges in maintaining supplies and ensuring public safety.
The successful operation by Campbell Bay Police not only disrupts illegal activities but also protects the health of the residents in the remote region.