GM arrested for escorting tanker containing illicit spirit

Una, Oct, 28 (UNI) The General Manager of a liquor manufacturing company was arrested last night by the Una police along with four others on charges of allegedly escorting a tanker containing illicit rectified spirit besides carrying fire arms despite the imposition of section 144 during the enforcement of the modal election code of conduct.

The brewery, Rangar Brewries Ltd, situated in the Mehatpur Industrial area, is owned by politician DP Yadav from Uttar Pradesh.

According to Superintendent of Police Dr Atul Fulzele, a Maruti Esteem vehicle was signalled to stop at the Dehlan police 'Naka' at around midnight.

The car reportedly did not stop. However a tanker, which was following the car, was forced to stop by the policemen, he said.

On inspection, it was found that the tanker contained spirit without any valid documents. Consequently, tanker driver Bansi Lal and his accomplice Harjeet were arrested under the relevant sections of the Excise Act, he said.

Meanwhile, the speeding car was intercepted by the police at the Una traffic signal, some eight km away. A search of the vehicle revealed a revolver besides cash amounting to Rs 3.53 lakh, Mr Fulzele said.

The vehicle was being driven by General manager Vinod Malhotra, while Rakesh Kumar, a employee and Harjinder Singh, a contractor at the brewery accompanied him in the vehicle, he added.

Mr Fulzele said, they had ample evidence to prove that the tanker, containing illicit rectified spirit was being escorted by the brewery staff.

UNI