Vasai police dismantle two illegal liquor dens after Pune's toxic alcohol scare

Police in Vasai have shut down two illegal liquor production sites following a recent toxic alcohol incident in Pune. The raids, carried out by specialised crime units, targeted hidden operations in forest areas. Two women now face charges under the Maharashtra Prohibition Act for their involvement in the trade. The first operation took place on May 29, 2026, in Manicha Pada near Vasai Phata. Teams from Virar Crime Branch Unit 3 seized materials valued at ₹1,07,300. Due to the remote location and lack of proper transport, all confiscated items were destroyed immediately on-site.

A second raid occurred the following day in the Barfpara forest. This time, officers from the Pelhar Crime Detection Branch recovered contraband worth ₹62,050. Combined, the two operations led to the seizure and destruction of illegal goods totalling ₹1,69,350. The crackdown follows a separate incident in Pune where toxic illicit liquor caused severe health issues. Authorities have intensified efforts to dismantle similar operations across the region.

Both raids resulted in the immediate destruction of seized materials. The two women arrested now face legal proceedings under state prohibition laws. Police have signalled further actions to curb the production and distribution of illegal alcohol in the area.