In one of the biggest liquor crackdowns in recent months, Gujarat Police seized illicit alcohol worth nearly ₹2 crore and detained 81 people during a late-night raid on an anniversary celebration in Ahmedabad highlighting once again the persistent underground liquor network operating in India’s only prohibition-strict states.
The operation was carried out late on Sunday after local police received specific intelligence about a large private gathering allegedly serving alcohol in violation of Gujarat’s prohibition laws. The event, organised at a farmhouse on the outskirts of the city, was reportedly an anniversary celebration attended by guests from Ahmedabad and nearby districts.
How the raid unfolded
According to senior police officials, multiple teams from the crime branch and local police stations were deployed to avoid leaks and ensure a coordinated operation. When officers entered the venue, they found large quantities of foreign liquor, Indian-made foreign liquor (IMFL), beer, and premium spirits being openly served to guests.
Police sources said that attempts were made by some attendees to flee the premises, but the area had already been cordoned off. All exits were sealed, resulting in the detention of 81 individuals, including event organisers, suppliers, and guests allegedly consuming alcohol.
The seized stock reportedly included imported liquor bottles, high-end brands, and bulk consignments stored in concealed sections of the farmhouse. Several vehicles believed to have been used for transporting the liquor were also impounded.
Violation of Gujarat Prohibition Act
Gujarat has enforced prohibition since 1960, making the manufacture, sale, possession, and consumption of alcohol illegal without special permits. Under the Gujarat Prohibition Act, those arrested could face imprisonment, hefty fines, or both, depending on their role in the offence.
Police officials confirmed that separate cases are being registered against the organisers, liquor suppliers, and repeat offenders. Samples of the seized alcohol have been sent for forensic analysis to determine sourcing and authenticity.
“This was not a casual violation but a well-planned event involving a significant quantity of liquor. We are investigating the entire supply chain,” a senior police officer said, adding that links to organised bootlegging networks are being examined.
Spotlight on enforcement challenges
The raid has once again drawn attention to the challenges of enforcing prohibition in urban Gujarat, particularly during private events and celebrations. Despite strict laws and frequent crackdowns, illegal liquor continues to surface at parties, weddings, and anniversaries, often supplied through interstate smuggling networks.
Experts note that demand for alcohol during social gatherings creates lucrative opportunities for bootleggers, with premium brands fetching high prices in the black market. Authorities believe the seized consignment alone could have generated several crores in illegal profits if fully distributed.
Political and public reaction
The incident has sparked debate on social media, with many questioning how such a large event could be organised without detection. Others have called for stricter surveillance of farmhouses and private venues frequently used for celebrations.
Police officials, however, defended the operation, stating that intelligence-based raids are the most effective way to tackle organised violations. “This action sends a strong message that prohibition laws will be enforced without exception,” an official said.
What’s next
Investigators are now tracking financial transactions, mobile records, and logistics linked to the raid. Authorities expect more arrests as the probe widens to identify suppliers and interstate connections.
For now, the massive seizure stands as a reminder of the scale at which prohibition laws are tested and enforced in Gujarat, even during seemingly private celebrations.
