In a decisive action against the illegal liquor trade, Dharmanagar police conducted a surprise raid on Saturday night at Purba Bazar, leading to the seizure of a large quantity of foreign liquor and the arrest of the alleged kingpin, Santosh Datta. The operation was carried out under the direct supervision and instructions of Officer-in-Charge Mina Debbarma, following persistent complaints from local residents.
For several months, people living in and around the Shani temple area of Purba Bazar had raised concerns about the unchecked growth of illicit liquor dens. Residents alleged that illegal sales were being carried out openly, creating law-and-order issues and social problems in the locality. The prolonged inaction had also triggered public speculation over whether the situation stemmed from negligence or deliberate inaction on the part of certain authorities.
Acting on these complaints, the police team conducted a thorough search of Santosh Datta’s shop during the raid. A substantial stock of foreign liquor was recovered, and Datta was caught red-handed while allegedly operating the illegal trade. He was immediately taken into custody, and police sources confirmed that he is currently being interrogated to identify other individuals involved in the liquor supply chain and distribution network.
The police action was welcomed by local residents, who described the raid as a long-overdue step. However, they cautioned that isolated operations would not be sufficient to curb the deeply rooted liquor mafia. Community members urged the police administration to ensure sustained surveillance and regular enforcement drives in order to realize Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha’s vision of a “Drug-Free Tripura.”
Residents also voiced concerns over alleged lapses by certain police personnel and demanded stricter internal monitoring to prevent illegal traders from operating with impunity. As the investigation progresses, the public remains watchful, hoping this raid signals the beginning of consistent and uncompromising action against the illegal liquor network rather than a one-time exercise.
