Sagar hooch tragedy: Probe traces fake liquor supply chain to UP border
MP police probe into 12 hooch deaths in Sagar traces suspected fake liquor supply to a UP-based network mimicking state brands.
An investigation into the deaths of at least 12 people in Madhya Pradesh's Sagar district has uncovered a suspected cross-border counterfeit liquor network. Preliminary findings suggest the spurious alcohol was manufactured in Uttar Pradesh's Lalitpur district and smuggled into MP, where it was sold as genuine local brands.
Sagar Superintendent of Police Anurag Sujaniya stated that the probe has identified a Lalitpur-based gang with a history of legal action for allegedly producing and distributing fake liquor in MP. The gang is suspected of manufacturing spurious liquor in packaging that closely mimics established MP brands, including Sagar Gold whisky and a country-made liquor brand, complete with labels, caps, and even QR codes.
Investigators believe the operation's location in Lalitpur was strategic, allowing the network to supply its target market across the state border in small, less conspicuous consignments. These deliveries were sometimes made in luxury cars to evade detection. The proximity also exploited the price difference, as liquor is cheaper in UP than in MP, giving sellers a financial incentive to bring it across the border.
The inquiry has revealed that the counterfeit bottles were so convincing that they may have deceived both buyers and the Excise Department. Officials suspect an agent linked to a licensed liquor seller may have sold the spurious alcohol to customers who believed they were purchasing legitimate products. The investigation has identified several points where the operation could have been detected, from the manufacturing stage to the final sale.
Police have registered three FIRs, naming 30 accused and arresting 14 individuals. Three excise officials and two police personnel have been suspended, and the Area Deputy Commissioner has been attached to headquarters. Raids are ongoing in villages, with authorities going door-to-door to recover any remaining stock and locate other suspects. The victims were primarily from the Nauraj and Gogra villages in the Banda police station area.