PASSA VALLEY :  Pakke Kessang district police, in coordination with the Department of Tax, Excise and Narcotics, on Thursday conducted a joint surprise inspection and enforcement drive against the illegal liquor trade in Rilloh and Ngoleko villages under Passa Valley Circle.

The operation covered shops, restaurants, hotels and roadside kiosks, during which officials seized 52.515 litres of liquor allegedly stored and sold without a valid excise licence.

The seized liquor was handed over to the Department of Tax, Excise and Narcotics for safe custody and further legal action under the relevant provisions of the Excise Act.

According to the police, the joint operation reflects the commitment of the district police and the Excise Department to curb illegal liquor trade, enforce the law and safeguard public health and safety.

Police noted that liquor sold illegally and stored without proper safeguards may be contaminated or unfit for consumption, posing serious health risks in addition to violating the law. They added that similar enforcement drives will continue across the district to deter violations and promote lawful business practices.

The district police appealed to shopkeepers, hotel owners, restaurant operators and members of the public to comply strictly with the provisions of the Excise Act and refrain from the illegal storage, sale or distribution of liquor. They also sought public cooperation in maintaining peace, public safety and the rule of law across the district.