KANNUR: A joint meeting of the Excise officials of Karnataka and Kerala have decided to work together to check liquor trafficking across the border of the two states, especially via the secret forest routes during the Onam season.
In the joint meeting of officials from both states, the delegation from Kerala put forward suggestions to intensify joint raids, joint vehicle checking and joint operations in forest areas bordering the states. All the suggestions were accepted and both sides will be on high alert during the festival season, said Abdul Khalam A, Deputy Excise Commissioner, Kannur.
“Smuggling of Indian-made foreign liquor (IMFL) from Karnataka is a major problem we are facing now. The Karnataka officials have extended support to put a tab on this. Besides, we sought their help in busting the gangs engaged in making spurious liquor in the forest ranges on the border,’’ Abdul Khalam said.
The officials exchanged phone numbers and the list of habitual offenders in Abkari cases. The Excise Department has heightened vigil against liquor smuggling during Onam season by forming striking forces at taluk level, intensified border patrolling and district-level control room. Joint vehicle checking, raids in forest ranges, inspection in liquor and toddy shops are also planned.
The chemical lab of the excise department to check liquor samples will function every day including holidays during Onam, the Excise official informed. The department has joined hands with the Social Welfare Department to check the production of illicit liquor in tribal and dalit colonies.