Baratang Police Cracks Down on Illicit Handia Trade, One Arrest Made

Tarun Karthick

Port Blair, 30 March 2024

On March 28, 2024, the Baratang Police demonstrated their unwavering commitment to eradicating illegal activities with a swift and effective operation. Acting on intelligence, law enforcement officials successfully intercepted a significant quantity of illicit Handia near the Anganwadi Centre, Jarawa Creek, Baratang.

Led by Sub-Inspector Sujit Bhattacharya, the Station House Officer of PS Baratang, a team of officers conducted a raid that resulted in the seizure of 60 kilograms of illicit Handia concealed in three aluminium containers. The accused, identified as Lagan Majhi, aged 69, a resident of Nayadera, Baratang, was promptly served a notice under Section 41 of the Criminal Procedure Code for further legal proceedings. The confiscated contraband was transported to PS Baratang, where a case under the Excise Regulation was registered against the accused.

The operation was conducted under the vigilant supervision of Mr. Rahul L. Nair, an IPS officer serving as the Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) of Rangat, and oversaw by Ms. Geetanjali Khandelwal, IPS, the Superintendent of Police for the N&M Andaman District.

In a public appeal, authorities urged citizens to report any information related to criminal activities to their nearest police station or through emergency hotlines 100, 112, and 03192-273344. Informants’ identities will remain confidential, with the promise of suitable rewards for their cooperation.