Patna: The Bihar Police has decided to intensify its crackdown on illegal country liquor by preparing an updated list of sub-divisions and police station areas notorious for such activities across all districts in the state.
According to officials, two to three such identified areas will be targeted at a time, where sustained enforcement drives will be carried out. Illegal liquor hotspots will also be marked on the crime maps of all police stations, and regular raids will be conducted by Tiger Mobile units.
The directives have been issued by the police headquarters to all Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) and Superintendents of Police (SPs). The move comes in the wake of the recent hooch tragedy in Motihari, prompting the Prohibition and Excise Department along with the State Narcotics Control Bureau to issue a revised Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).
Under the new SOP, specific daily, weekly and monthly targets have been set for action against illegal liquor. In rural areas, chowkidars and village-level personnel, while in urban areas beat constables, have been tasked with providing daily inputs on illicit liquor activities in their respective jurisdictions.
Officials have also been directed to submit monthly written reports confirming whether illegal liquor activities are taking place in their areas. Station House Officers (SHOs) have been instructed to carry out immediate raids upon receiving information about liquor smuggling, without any delay.
Special vigilance has been mandated during festivals, weddings, public gatherings and elections. Police personnel have been asked to increase surveillance around schools, colleges, markets, bus stands and railway stations.
The police headquarters has warned that strict action will be taken against officials found negligent in enforcing prohibition laws, while those performing well will be rewarded. Additionally, all SPs have been directed to conduct at least one special operation per week using sniffer dog squads to strengthen enforcement.
The intensified measures are aimed at curbing the illegal liquor trade and preventing incidents related to spurious alcohol in the state.
