KATHUA, SEPT 22: Stepping up its crackdown on the illegal trade and transportation of liquor, Police arrested a suspected bootlegger and seized 50 quarters of illicit liquor, each measuring 180 ml, during a checking operation on Maroli Road in the Hatli Morh area.
The action was carried out when a police team led by the In-Charge Police Post Hatli established a special naka on Maroli Road under the supervision of Addl. SP Kathua, DySP Headquarters Kathua and SHO Police Station Kathua.
During checking, the team apprehended Bhukao Ram Jeet Lehray alias Tara Chand, son of Daya Ram, a resident of Kotgarh, Chhattisgarh, presently residing at Hatli Morh, Kathua. Police said 50 quarters of JK Excise Whisky were recovered from his possession, allegedly kept for illegal sale and profit.
In connection with the seizure, FIR Number 474/2026 under Sections 48(a)(f) of the Excise Act has been registered at Police Station Kathua, and further investigation is underway.
SSP Kathua Mohita Sharma, said strict action would be taken against persons involved in the illegal trade, transportation or distribution of liquor and that enforcement measures would continue to curb such activities.
The operation highlights Kathua Police’s continued efforts to check the movement of illicit liquor and prevent its illegal distribution in the district.
