Ludhiana, Punjab: Punjab police uncovered an unusual liquor smuggling operation when a truck carrying jumbo gas cylinders was intercepted en route to Gujarat. The Special Cell of Ludhiana police caught the suspect before the contraband could reach its destination, exposing a large-scale smuggling network.
Hidden in Jumbo Cylinders
On January 8, 2026, Inspector Harpreet Singh Dehl’s team set up a checkpoint in the Ladowal area. A truck (registration GJ 39 T 1951) was stopped for inspection after the driver failed to produce valid documents. Upon closer examination, the police discovered six large Indane gas cylinders filled with concealed liquor cases.
The seized items included 74 cases of McDowell’s No. 1, 31 cases of Punjab Cheers XXX Rum, 17 additional cases of the same brand, and 180 liters of unbranded liquor, along with other suspicious materials. The accused has been identified as Prakash Singh from Vehra village in Bakhasar, Barmer district, Rajasthan.
Prior Criminal Record and Ongoing Investigation
Further investigation revealed that Prakash Singh has four previous cases under the Excise Act—two each in Rajasthan and Gujarat—indicating his long-standing involvement in liquor smuggling. Police are now tracing other members of his network and suppliers.
A case has been registered against him under Sections 61, 78(1), and 14 of the Excise Act at Ladowal Police Station. After his court appearance, authorities obtained a two-day remand to interrogate him further.
This seizure highlights the innovative and daring methods smugglers use, as well as the vigilance of law enforcement agencies in curbing illegal liquor trafficking.
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