Athagarh, June 24: In a major crackdown on illegal liquor manufacturing, the Excise Department conducted a joint raid in Koranga village and the adjoining cashew forest area under Athagarh police limits in Cuttack district, leading to the seizure of a large quantity of country liquor and raw materials used in its production.

The operation was carried out jointly by the Athagarh Excise Department, Banki Excise Police Station, District Mobile Unit (Cuttack), and Athagarh Police.

During the raid, officials seized 3,220 litres of country liquor and 17,165 litres of fermented jaggery pocha, which was being used for the preparation of illicit liquor. The seized fermented wash was destroyed on the spot as part of the enforcement action.

The Excise Department has registered six separate cases in connection with the illegal liquor manufacturing activities and has launched further investigations to identify and apprehend those involved in the racket.

Officials said the drive was part of ongoing efforts to curb the production and sale of illicit liquor in the region and ensure strict enforcement of excise laws. Further raids are expected in vulnerable areas to dismantle similar illegal operations.