Siliguri, 12th November: The Darjeeling District Excise Department busted an alleged liquor smuggling operation after intercepting an ambulance carrying 109 cartons of duty-unpaid liquor on the Fulbari-Ghoshpukur Bypass. The ambulance, allegedly used to transport the liquor while evading police attention, was also seized.
The estimated market value of the 109 cartons of seized liquor is ₹24,52,500. Including the seized ambulance, the total estimated value of all seized articles stands at ₹32,52,500.
According to the Excise Department, the operation was conducted on Wednesday night following a tip-off. After noticing the presence of excise officials, the driver allegedly tried to flee with the ambulance, triggering a chase. After pursuing the vehicle for some time, the officials eventually managed to intercept it.
A search of the ambulance revealed 109 cartons of liquor concealed inside. The driver reportedly managed to escape from the spot by taking advantage of the darkness after the ambulance was intercepted.
