Staff Reporter
DIMAPUR, MAY 26
DEPARTMENT of Excise has destroyed a total of 3480 cases of IMFL, 482 kgs of Ganja, 2398 capsules of Spasmo Proxyvon and 200 bottles of Codeine cough syrup which was carried out in the office premises of Commissioner of Excise this morning. The IMFL included 1738 (full) cases, 221 (quarter) cases, 471 (half) cases and 1050 Beer (bottle/ Cans) cases.
The destroyed items valued at Rs one crore in the open market were seized during May 1, 2013 and April 30, 2014. The detection and seizures were made from 397 cases in the past one year wherein 405 persons were arrested.
The destruction was carried out this morning in the presence of Excise department officials and representatives from administration, police, Assam Rifles and Dimapur based NGOs.
Speaking on the occasion, Excise Commissioner, Moangwati Aier, said revenue collected during the aforesaid period was the highest after imposition of prohibition in the State which amounted to Rs 5.41 crores. He said the collected revenue during the period has been submitted to the government.
Commenting on the magnitude of seizure, the Commissioner has appreciated the efforts of the Excise officials and 29 and 34 Assam Rifles in their attempt to impose total prohibition in Nagaland. He said the seized liquor could have killed thousands youth besides impacting on their economic life had it not contained by the enforcement agencies. He said the items were not fit for human consumption.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner also informed that the US Embassy in Delhi has agreed to depute 15 of its officials to train the Excise personnel on the latest method of investigation and seizure of contraband items. He said the US officials would be in Dimapur by June next to impart training to Excise officers and staff.
Besides the Excise officials and destruction committee, representatives from 29 and 34 Assam Rifles, administration, police, judiciary and Dimapur based NGOs were present during the destruction.