Prayagraj: For the first time, the Prayagraj zone police, in collaboration with the drug department, have initiated a campaign to curb the misuse of alcohol-laced drugs and tinctures being sold as liquor. This campaign covers seven districts in the zone, including Kaushambi, Pratapgarh, Mahoba, Hamirpur, Fatehpur, Banda, and Chitrakoot.
Joint teams are conducting surprise checks at shops, collecting samples for laboratory testing. If samples are found to be sub-standard, the shop’s license will be canceled, and legal action will be taken. This extensive 15-day campaign, starting on June 15 and running until June 30, aims to address the sale, smuggling, and manufacturing of illegal liquor.
Teams have been instructed to verify barcodes and QR codes on liquor stock at shops and maintain a special watch on isolated areas where the production of fake liquor is likely. Additionally, they are monitoring liquor shops for overcharging and ensuring compliance with opening and closing times through CCTV surveillance.
Authorities are also gathering information on networks producing fake caps, QR codes, and wrappers, and keeping an eye on shops selling paint, thinner, and varnish. Even closed units are being scrutinized.
The department has set up a toll-free number (14405) and a WhatsApp number (9454466019) for the public to report information on the manufacturing and sale of illicit liquor.
