Liquor worth Rs 24 lakh seized on Mumbai-Goa highway, one held

Excise department today intercepted a tempo near Pen in Raigad district and seized Indian-made foreign liquor (IMFL) worth Rs 23.77 lakh, which was being smuggled into the state from neighbouring Goa, an official said.
The liquor bottles were recovered after the vehicle was stopped at Vadkhal naka on Mumbai-Goa highway yesterday afternoon by Thane range of Excise department. The driver of the vehicle has been arrested.
"The tempo was intercepted at Vadkhal naka based on a tip-off. After a search, the tempo was found carrying the liquor bottles. The liquor was manufactured in Goa and meant for sale in that state only. However, it was being brought into Mumbai illegally," Deputy Commissioner of Excise department of Thane Division, S B Salunke, said.

The driver of the tempo, Santosh P Devulkar (25), who hails from Kudal taluka of Sindhudurg district, has been arrested in this connection.
"Along with the liquor worth Rs 23.77, the tempo valued at Rs 12 lakh, has also been seized," the official said.
The driver was produced in the local court today and remanded to Excise department's custody for four days.
In view of the upcoming Christmas and New Year celebrations, Excise Commissioner V Radha has issued instructions to the officials to remain alert and maintain strict vigil, Salunke said adding, "Accordingly, a strict watch is being kept on the highways, including the Mumbai-Goa highway.