Vikash Sharma

Bhubaneswar: At a time when most of the tipplers across the State are running dry, a bar in Bhubaneswar was busy raking in moolah by allegedly selling liquor ‘illegally’ during COVID-19 lockdown. The concerned bar located in Cuttack Road area was raided today jointly by a Quick Action Team (QAT) and Laxmisagar Police and huge stock of liquor was seized.

As per reports, the joint team conducted a raid following a tip-off regarding illegal sale of liquor at the bar. Though the concerned bar was earlier sealed by the Excise Department, liquor was allegedly being sold at exorbitant prices.

Also Read: Home Delivery Of Liquor In Odisha From Tomorrow, 50% COVID Fee Imposed

On getting information, cops laid a trap and busted the racket while two cartons of beer were being loaded for delivery. Later, huge quantities of liquor bottles were recovered from the store room of the concerned bar. Three persons including the security guard of the bar have been detained and further investigation in this connection is underway.

Meanwhile, owner of bar said, “As I am outside, I have no information regarding the incident. From the pictures shown on TV, it looks like our store room where all the liquor stock was kept. A security guard and another employee were present to carry out maintenance-related works.”

On the other hand, Senior Excise officials stated that appropriate action will be taken if there is any violation of rules under the Excise Act following an inquiry.

(Edited by Bikram Keshari Jena)

 

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