Manipur cops seize over 250 liquor bottles near Assam border
Summary of the News Article
Police in Manipur intercepted a white Gypsy vehicle (registration MN 01AS 4499) at Jiribam Bazar on June 18, 2025, acting on intelligence about interstate liquor smuggling. Driver Thingbaijam Sanjitkumar Singh (42), a resident of Leingangpokpi (Jiribam), was arrested after the discovery of over 250 bottles of Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) meant for Assam. Brands seized include Gentlemen Club, Iconic White, McDowell’s, Sterling Reserve B7, Old Monk beer, Corona, Kingfisher, Vintage, among others. Unable to produce valid documentation, both the smuggler and seized goods were handed to the Excise Department for further action.
1. Introduction: Smuggling at the Crossroads
Ever wondered how something as seemingly innocent as a bottle of liquor can turn into a tool for crime? Picture this: it’s June 18, 2025, at the bustling Jiribam Bazar on the Manipur–Assam border. A police operation unfolds, catching a suspect transporting over 250 bottles of specially branded Indian Made Foreign Liquor across state lines. This wasn’t just a random stop—it was a strategic bust against a well‑oiled interstate smuggling network.
2. Setting the Context: Why This Matters
2.1 Close‑knit Borderlands
Jiribam’s strategic location—nestled on the fringe of Assam’s Cachar district—makes it a prime spot for traffickers. Border police are on their toes, aware that illegal liquor flow can bankroll other crimes or fuel public health risks.
2.2 Economics of Bootlegging
Every tax‑exempt bottle sold across state lines deprives government coffers and propels shady money into black markets. Multiply that by hundreds, thousands, and the loss skyrockets.
2.3 Law vs. Enterprise
Smuggling is more than liquor. It’s money laundering, profit‑driven deceit. So busting it isn’t just a raid—it’s a blow against systemic criminality. In Jiribam’s case, cops struck precisely at this junction, seizing not just bottles but intent.
3. The Operation: A Step‑by‑Step Breakdown
3.1 Intelligence Gathering
Anonymous tips, vigilant check‑posts—each hint pointed to increased smuggler activity. Police zeroed in on one suspicious Gypsy vehicle.
3.2 The Interception
On June 18, at Jiribam Bazar, a white Gypsy with Assam‑destination liquor was flagged and stopped. The registered plate—MN 01AS 4499—caught the attention of border patrol.
3.3 товаров Found
Police uncovered over 250 bottles of IMFL:
- Gentlemen Club (750ml) – 6 bottles
- Iconic White (375ml) – 9 bottles
- McDowell’s (375ml) – 14 bottles
- Sterling Reserve B7 (180ml) – 38 bottles
- Oppa (360ml) – 8 bottles
- Vintage (750ml) – 2 bottles
- Kusum beer (750ml) – 2 bottles
- Corona Extra (355ml) – 11 bottles
- Kingfisher beer (500ml) – 36 cans
- Old Monk beer (500ml) – 12 bottles
3.4 The Arrest and Aftermath
Driver Thoughtbaijam Sanjitkumar Singh (42), resident of Leingangpokpi, Jiribam, was unable to show documentation. He was arrested on the spot, and the alcohol and vehicle seized.
3.5 Handing Over to Excise
Seized goods and the suspect were handed over to the state Excise Department post formal process—leading to deeper investigations and possible charges.
4. Why This Smuggling Operation Stood Out
4.1 Quantity and Diversity
Over 250 bottles across well‑known brands (McDowell’s, Old Monk, Kingfisher…) indicates a broad, commercial‑level operation—not casual pocket‑smuggling.
4.2 Strategic Timing
Intercepting on June 18 suggests police were gathering intel for days. This wasn’t a random check—it was planned.
4.3 Active Smuggling Route
Jiribam border is a prime conduit. Smugglers repeatedly test boundaries; this bust shows law underscored presence and action.
5. The Bigger Picture: Liquor Smuggling in North‑East India
5.1 Pattern of Busts
This incident isn’t isolated. In February 2025, police uncovered hundreds of bottles in Thoubal district and seized over 2,500 liters of local liquor in earlier operations.
5.2 Root Causes
- Higher taxes in consuming states
- Cross‑border demand
- Weak enforcement along porous borders
5.3 Impact on Communities
Liquor tax funds hospitals, schools—bootlegging diverts revenue and compromises public welfare.
5.4 Law Enforcement Synergy
Past busts (e.g., police+CRPF operations) prove that coordination between bodies strengthens enforcement.
10. Conclusion: More Than Just Bottles of Liquor
What seemed like another liquor haul turned into a glimpse at interstate crime dynamics—smart policing, legal channels, and public interest all came together to make this a teachable moment. Over 250 bottles are gone, but the message is clear: Manipur isn’t letting its borders be used as passage for illegal goods. If you’re from these border regions, or just care about fair trade and rule of law, this isn’t just a local hit—it’s a reminder: watch, report, and support law‑abiding commerce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do police detect smuggling at border points?
They use intelligence, informants, random checks, and surveillance. In this case, info led to a mobile checkpoint that seized the contraband.
2. What legal consequences does the smuggler face?
Without valid passes or documentation under the Manipur Excise Act, he faces heavy fines, potential jail time, vehicle seizure, and destruction of smuggled liquor.
3. What happens to seized liquor and vehicle?
Usually handed to Excise Department. Depending on court orders, goods may be auctioned, destroyed, or stored until court verdicts. Vehicles might be forfeited.
4. How does this seizure impact local communities?
Protects state tax revenue used for public services, discourages illegal trade, and keeps harmful unregulated liquor off shelves.
5. How can citizens help prevent liquor smuggling?
Report suspicious activity, support community watch groups, and encourage authorities to set up more checkpoints—especially during festivals or known smuggling peaks.
