Keralam Records Biggest-Ever Spirit Seizure With 20,570-Litre Haul

The Keralam Excise Department has seized 20,570 litres of spirit from a private godown at Sreemoolanagaram near Aluva in Ernakulam district, marking what Excise Minister M Liju described as the biggest spirit seizure in the state's history. The massive recovery has brought renewed attention to suspected illegal liquor supply networks operating across Keralam, particularly the movement and storage of concentrated alcohol for unauthorised liquor production.

The seizure was made during a raid on Tuesday night, October 27, under Operation Thunder, the enforcement component of the state's anti-drug campaign, 'Mayangilla Keralam'. The spirit was stored in 605 cans, each with a capacity of 35 litres. Three individuals, identified as Thomas, Rejo and Nawas, allegedly stocked the consignment for distribution to illicit liquor networks in southern Keralam and Palakkad district.

The operation was led by Aluva Excise Circle Inspector Jose Prathap, along with Excise Inspector Shyam Kumar, Assistant Excise Inspectors Johnson and Arun Kumar, and members of the Excise shadow team.

Rectified spirit, which generally contains around 95 per cent alcohol, has legitimate industrial, pharmaceutical and beverage-manufacturing uses. However, its unauthorised storage, transportation or diversion for illegal liquor production can attract action under excise laws. The suspected diversion of the Aluva consignment has raised concerns about suppliers, transporters and distribution networks operating beyond the regulated liquor market.

The seizure follows other major operations in Keralam. In August, officials recovered 7,000 litres from a Karnataka-registered truck at Payyannur, allegedly destined for illicit liquor production ahead of Onam. Another operation at Angamaly uncovered a suspected bottling facility, where officials seized spirit, empty bottles and packaging equipment. Two people were arrested.

The financial incentives behind the trade are also significant. During the Angamaly investigation, Excise Deputy Commissioner P K Satheesh said one litre of spirit could produce approximately 2.5 litres of illicit IMFL. He cited procurement prices of Rs 60–70 per litre in neighbouring states and potential selling prices of around Rs 700 per litre of illicit liquor in Keralam.

Enforcement figures underline the challenge. Minister Liju reported 24,131 raids and 20,669 cases between May 18 and July 11, 2026. Separately, the Kerala Economic Review 2025 recorded 2,822 intelligence-based cases and 2,366 arrests during 2025. It also highlighted shortages of personnel, vehicles and equipment affecting enforcement capabilities.

The 'Mayangilla Keralam' campaign combines enforcement with prevention, de-addiction and rehabilitation. The Excise Department's immediate challenge is to establish the origin of the Aluva consignment, identify its intended recipients and investigate possible financial and interstate connections.