Goa:In a significant development, the interstate liquor smuggling case, with its origins in Goa, has now extended its legal proceedings to the Bhachau Additional Court in Gujarat. One of the five accused individuals, Ligorio Desouza, a businessman from Canacona, Goa, has sought anticipatory bail, with the court slated to hear his plea on Monday.
The case has garnered attention due to Desouza’s involvement and the alleged liquor smuggling operation, which saw consignments transported to Gujarat from Goa. Despite repeated attempts by Gujarat police to locate Desouza in South Goa, he has remained elusive. The case, which is linked to violations of the Gujarat (Bombay) Prohibition Act, 1949, has exposed the challenges posed by porous borders, making Goa a hub for liquor smuggling to various states.
Desouza’s anticipatory bail plea is scheduled for a hearing on Monday, with Gujarat police preparing additional documents related to the case. Authorities suspect further arrests may follow in Goa, possibly involving Excise officials connected to the illegal liquor trade.
This case underscores the need for stringent enforcement measures in Goa’s liquor trade industry, as concerns about smuggling operations continue to grow.
