₹1 Crore Liquor Consignment Seized in Banka Ahead of Holi

Brief By Newsbrief / 9:05 AM on 03 Feb 2026

Acting on a specific intelligence input, the Banka Excise Department, with police support, intercepted a 12-wheeler truck at the Bhaljor check post on the Dumka–Bhagalpur road, uncovering a massive consignment of foreign liquor concealed beneath paddy husk. A total of 1,134 cartons, amounting to about 1,097 litres, valued at nearly ₹1 crore, was seized, dealing a blow to bootleggers ahead of the festive rush. The truck driver, Sunil Sahni of Muzaffarpur, was arrested after attempting to flee. Preliminary questioning revealed the load originated in Jharkhand and was bound for Motihari. Authorities have launched a wider investigation to identify financiers, receivers, and local facilitators, while strengthening vehicle checks across border routes. Officials reiterated zero tolerance against illicit alcohol, warning of strict action under prohibition laws and sustained enforcement through the festival period to prevent diversion, accidents, and public harm statewide.