Madhya Pradesh police inspector killed by truck carrying illicit liquor in Dewas
Khategaon police station in-charge Dilip Puri died after a truck allegedly carrying smuggled liquor ran over him during an interception.
A Madhya Pradesh police inspector was killed in Dewas district in the early hours of Monday after a truck suspected of smuggling illegal liquor ran over him, according to The Hindu. The officer, Khategaon police station in-charge Dilip Puri, was leading one of five teams tasked with intercepting illicit liquor transportation on the Indore-Betul highway.
Dewas Superintendent of Police Aditya Mishra said the incident occurred when the team intercepted the vehicle. Reports indicate that after being asked to step out of the truck, the driver allegedly attempted to drive away, causing the vehicle's rear wheel to run over Puri. The officer was taken to a hospital where he could not be saved.
Police seized the truck and more than 1,800 litres of liquor that lacked purchase bills. While one report states the driver fled the scene, another indicates the driver has been arrested. A special investigation team (SIT) has been formed to investigate the smuggling operation and locate any other involved parties.
The incident follows recent reports of 13 deaths in the district, allegedly caused by consuming spurious liquor in villages including Chandana and Binjana. Following those deaths, the government transferred the Dewas Collector and the Superintendent of Police.
Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar criticised the state government, questioning if the liquor mafia has lost fear of the administration. Local BJP MLA Ashish Sharma stated that the administration is taking large-scale action against the illegal trade and will hold those involved accountable.