Innovative Smuggling Tactics in Bihar: Horses Used for Alcohol Transport

Horses Employed for Alcohol Smuggling in Bihar

In a bid to combat alcohol smuggling in the alcohol-free state of Bihar, authorities have discovered that smugglers are now utilizing horses as a means of transport. Recently, police in the West Champaran district seized a horse that was being used to carry approximately 50 liters of illicit alcohol. Rajesh Kumar, the Station House Officer of Nautan police station, reported that during a raid, they confiscated 49.95 liters of alcohol loaded on the horse. Although the smuggler managed to escape, law enforcement has identified him and plans to apprehend him soon. The horse will be entrusted to a responsible individual for its care, and the court will be notified regarding this matter.

Increased Vigilance Leads to New Smuggling Methods

Just two months prior, a similar incident occurred when police apprehended a horse carrying two cartons of alcohol in the same district. Due to heightened patrols on the roads, smugglers have adapted their strategies, opting to use horses to transport alcohol from neighboring states. Kumar explained, "Smugglers now prefer to transport prohibited alcohol along the Gandak River to evade police detection. We recently uncovered this new tactic and set a trap to catch them."

Ongoing Investigations and Legal Actions

A police team from Nautan stopped the horse around 3 AM near the riverbank. Despite the darkness aiding the smuggler's escape, the SHO revealed that they have identified a trader involved in the smuggling operation. An FIR has been filed against Akash Yadav, a resident of Para Parsouni in the Nautan area, who remains at large. The horse has been handed over to a local resident for its upkeep. The investigating officer noted that the expenses incurred for the horse's care will be recovered from the accused once he is released on bail.