TEAM HERALD
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BELGAUM: While Karnataka goes to poll on April 17, inflow of Goan liquor continues unabated, as authorities have seized about 20,000 litres of illicit Goa liquor, worth Rs 82 lakh, till April 5.
In a joint operation against the illicit Goa liquor being transported in Belgaum during the ongoing campaigning for parliamentary elections, Belgaum excise officials along with the police seized about 20,000 litres of illicit Goa liquor till April 5. The cost of the seized liquor is estimated at Rs 82 lakh.
Addressing a news conference here, Deputy Commissioner of Belgaum N Jayram said as many as 432 raids were carried out since the dates of the elections were declared, in which 111 persons have been arrested. In all, 36 check posts have been set up at strategic points bordering Goa and Karnataka.
“Belgaum district that has two parliamentary constituencies, Belgaum and Chikkodi, has 33,73,140 voters comprising 17,31,934 male and 16,40,979 female voters and 4040 booths will be set up for polling on this day,” informed DC Jayram.
and added that supporters of candidates are involved in luring the voters especially in rural and slum areas by offering cash and Goa liquor.
Meanwhile, speaking on the occasion Deputy Commissioner of Central Excise Merunandan stated that due to rising complaints of rowdy behaviour with the excise officials at border points, armed police assistance has been sought.
“We have provided armed police at Kankumbi, Londa and other points, as persons involved in the liquor trade are many times carrying arms and the situation can be dangerous during night,” he added.
