Hyderabad, India — The Telangana Excise and Prohibition Department’s State Task Force has intensified efforts to combat the illegal sale and transportation of toddy, resulting in the arrest of five individuals. This crackdown was prompted by recent incidents in Kukatpally, where the consumption of adulterated toddy has raised grave public health concerns, leading to multiple fatalities and numerous hospitalizations.
In a series of coordinated raids across Hyderabad, task force officials confiscated 420 liters of toddy along with six motorcycles. These operations unfolded in three different locations as authorities targeted those operating without the necessary licenses, reflecting a growing urgency to tackle this illicit trade.
During inspections in Nalla Cheruvu and Uppal, officials apprehended three individuals—Ranga Srikanth, Lodi Anil, and Badiga Naveen—while they were transporting 25 liters of toddy on motorcycles. Another significant bust occurred in Ghatkesar, where Lodi Sandeep was caught with 82 liters of the unlicensed product as it was being moved.
Additionally, two more suspects, Lodi Mahender and Mada Ramesh, were arrested during a separate operation with 124 liters of toddy in their possession. The task force has sent all seized samples for forensic testing to determine if any harmful adulterants were present in the beverages.
Authorities are also scrutinizing various toddy depots in the city, having conducted inspections in Saroornagar, Ramanthapur, and Uppal. Samples collected from these locations are undergoing detailed laboratory analysis as officials look for evidence of sedative substances, such as alprazolam, that may be mixed into the alcoholic beverage.
The rising number of incidents related to adulterated toddy has prompted the authorities to issue stern warnings against unsanctioned vendors and transporters. Officials emphasized that severe penalties would be enforced to deter further violations and ensure public safety.
Local health experts have expressed alarm over the risks associated with consuming unregulated alcoholic products. They stress the importance of consumer awareness and urge residents to only purchase toddy from licensed outlets to avoid potential health hazards. The ongoing efforts of the state task force are seen as a crucial step in addressing these issues and promoting a safer environment for all citizens.