MASSIVE IMFL HAUL IN MANIPUR: TWO ARRESTED WITH LIQUOR WORTH RS 55 LAKH
SUMMARY
On July 26, 2025, Manipur Police, acting under Heingang Police Station in Imphal East district, intercepted a vehicle in the Mantripukhri area and arrested two men—Thangjam Arbin Singh (28) and Keisham Santa Meetei (40)—for transporting 16,073 bottles of Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) without valid permits. The seized consignment, various brands included, was valued at approximately ₹55 lakh. Investigations are ongoing to trace the source, distribution network, and any broader smuggling links
THE LONG READ
The Hefty Haul: Breaking Down the Numbers
Imagine a cargo so large it could stock dozens of neighbourhood liquor shops overnight. That’s precisely what law enforcement uncovered on July 26—16,073 bottles of IMFL, ranging from popular whiskies to premium vodkas, all bundled together on a single route through Imphal East Valued at ₹55 lakh, this haul isn’t just a minor bust; it’s one of the largest in recent memory, underscoring both the scale of demand and the sophistication of smuggling networks operating in Northeast India.
Behind the Bust: How the Operation Unfolded
So, how did the police nail down this operation? It began with routine intelligence gathering—tips from local informants, intercepted communications, and surveillance around known smuggling corridors. On that sweltering afternoon, officers from the Heingang Police Station acted on a tip-off, setting up a checkpoint near Mantripukhri. Within minutes of flagging down the suspect vehicle, a cursory search revealed stacks of IMFL hidden beneath layers of paperwork and tarpaulin. What started as a standard vehicle check quickly escalated into one of the biggest liquor busts the state has seen
Meet the Arrested: Profiles in Contraband
- Thangjam Arbin Singh (28): Hailing from Sagolband Thangjam Leikai in Imphal West, Singh is no stranger to local circles. Residents describe him as quiet but well-connected—traits that, in hindsight, may have facilitated his alleged role in the liquor racket
- Keisham Santa Meetei (40): From Kangsoibi Mapal in Bishnupur district, Meetei is a familiar face in transportation hubs. Locals say he often rented out vehicles for long hauls, a business that appears legitimate on the surface but now seems a clever front for illicit consignments
Together, this duo was allegedly orchestrating shipments to bypass excise checks, a common tactic in states with stringent liquor regulations.
Conclusion
This ₹55 lakh haul serves as both a wake-up call and a testament to Manipur Police’s resolve. While challenges remain—the adaptability of smugglers, resource constraints, and the lure of quick profits—the recent bust demonstrates that, step by step, authorities are tightening the net. As readers, we can stay informed, spread awareness, and support lawful commerce. After all, every thwarted consignment isn’t just a win for the state—it’s a win for public health, community security, and the rule of law.
FAQs
- What constitutes a legal consignment of IMFL in Manipur?
Legal consignments require valid permits under Manipur’s Excise Act. Any transportation of IMFL above a threshold quantity without proper documentation is illegal. - How can local communities assist in curbing liquor smuggling?
Residents can report suspicious vehicles or unlicensed liquor sales to local police helplines, fostering a community-police partnership. - What penalties do smugglers face under Manipur’s excise laws?
Offenders can face heavy fines, seizure of vehicles and goods, and imprisonment varying with the quantity and intent to distribute. - Are there health risks associated with illegally sold liquor?
Yes—unregulated alcohol may be adulterated or counterfeit, posing serious health hazards including poisoning and long-term ailments. - How often do major liquor busts occur in the Northeast?
While minor seizures are frequent, consignments of this scale (over ₹50 lakh) are rare and indicate highly organized smuggling networks.
