In Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, a crowd of locals rushed to seize illicit liquor bottles lined up by the police for destruction at a dumping yard on Etukuru Road. The authorities were attempting to dispose of illegal alcohol worth Rs 50 lakh, confiscated in various cases.
Despite police efforts to control the destruction process, a large group quickly gathered and began grabbing the bottles, disrupting the operation. The video of the incident showed police trying to stop the locals but the situation soon went out of control as many locals attempted to escape with the bottles.
Many individuals even managed to flee with several bottles before the police could intervene.
The incident highlights the challenges law enforcement faces when disposing of seized illicit items in public spaces. The authorities are yet to determine what actions will be taken against those involved in the disruption and theft of the confiscated liquor.
Last week, an ice cream parlour in Jubilee Hills sparked outrage after it was caught selling whiskey-laced ice cream, including to children. The Excise Enforcement Police swiftly raided Arico Cafe, located on Road No. 11 and 55, seizing 11.5 kg of ice cream mixed with 100 Pipers whiskey. The parlour reportedly added 60 ml of whiskey per kg of ice cream and marketed the alcohol-infused dessert at a premium price.
According to the Excise Department, the parlour had even promoted the liquor-mixed ice cream on Facebook to attract more customers. Excise Superintendent Pradeep Rao, who led the raid, emphasized that selling alcohol-based products to children is a serious violation under Section 34A of the Excise Act. "Strict action will be taken against those responsible," Rao asserted.