India

Madhya Pradesh Police Probe Reveals Gujarat‑Linked Liquor‑Smuggling Ring Behind Cop’s Murder

By Shruti Tomar

Investigators into the death of Khategaon police station in‑charge Dilip Puri, who was allegedly run over while inspecting a truck carrying illegal liquor, have uncovered an interstate smuggling syndicate that operates between Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat. The network uses licensed liquor outlets in Madhya Pradesh, concealed transport routes and specially modified vehicles to move illicit consignments across state borders. Seven individuals, including a Gujarat‑based operator and a Congress leader from Harda, have been identified in the probe. The Congress leader, Rahul Jaiswal, is said to be the kingpin, coordinating the movement of liquor and distributing proceeds among members. Other arrested persons include truck driver Gajendra alias Akku Rawat, transporter Keram Singh, Vijay Rao, and Rahul Jaiswal himself; Manish and Mohin Jaiswal remain at large. The truck that killed Puri was found abandoned near Sandalpur Phata in Dewas district, and authorities recovered more than 1,800 litres of liquor hidden in secret compartments. The case has prompted the suspension of three liquor shop licences in Timarni and the suspension of an assistant district excise officer and two excise constables for alleged negligence. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has directed police to take concerted action against the liquor mafia across the state, urging strict measures against anyone involved in the transportation, storage and sale of illicit liquor.