In a peculiar incident highlighting the ongoing struggle against illegal liquor trade in Bihar, police in West Champaran district seized a horse used for smuggling alcohol. The incident occurred in the Nautan area, where authorities recovered nearly 50 liters of foreign-made liquor being transported on the animal. The police conducted the raid based on a tip-off, targeting liquor smugglers operating in the Gandak Diyara region.
According to reports, the smuggler managed to escape, taking advantage of the difficult terrain. However, authorities have identified the individual and are actively pursuing his arrest. The seized horse and the liquor were taken to the Nautan Police Station.
Station House Officer (SHO) Rajesh Kumar stated that the recovered alcohol amounted to 49.95 liters. He added that the horse would be entrusted to a responsible individual who can properly care for the animal. The court will also be informed of the arrangement, ensuring the horse can be presented as evidence if needed during the trial.
This is reportedly the second incident in recent months where horses have been used for liquor smuggling in the area. Police officials noted that smugglers are increasingly turning to horses to avoid detection, as they can navigate the riverine terrain and less accessible routes more discreetly than vehicles like motorcycles. Two-wheelers are more easily noticed due to their sounds and lights, prompting smugglers to seek alternative methods.
The incident has brought attention to the innovative tactics employed by those involved in the illegal liquor trade in Bihar, where the sale, transport, and consumption of alcohol are banned under the Bihar Prohibition and Excise Act, 2016. Violators of this act face severe penalties, including hefty fines and imprisonment.
Beyond the violation of prohibition laws, the use of animals for smuggling also raises concerns about animal cruelty. According to legal experts, using a horse to carry heavy loads of liquor could be construed as animal cruelty, potentially leading to additional charges under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act. This act prohibits overloading and causing unnecessary pain or suffering to animals, with potential consequences including fines, animal seizure, and imprisonment for those responsible.
