Agartala, 18th July 2026: An anti-drug operation by Tripura Police in South Tripura’s Manu Bazar ended in controversy on Saturday after a large quantity of seized country liquor was allegedly snatched away by a group of women while it was being transported to the police station.
According to police sources, officers from Shantirbazar Police Station, led by Officer-in-Charge Raju Dutta, conducted a special anti-liquor drive at the weekly Monu Bazar market and seized a substantial quantity of illicit country liquor. However, while the confiscated liquor was being transported in an auto-rickshaw to the police station, the vehicle reportedly got stuck on a muddy road.
Taking advantage of the situation, a group of tribal women allegedly surrounded the vehicle and forcibly took away the sacks containing the seized liquor. Police personnel present at the spot were reportedly outnumbered and unable to prevent the incident due to an insufficient deployment of forces.
A case has been registered at Shantirbazar Police Station, and an investigation is underway to identify and apprehend those involved. While local sources alleged that a woman identified as Mamata Debbarma led the group, police have not officially confirmed any names.
Manu Bazar, which hosts a weekly market every Saturday, has long been accused by residents of being a hub for the illegal sale and consumption of country liquor. Locals claim that despite repeated complaints and the presence of successive police officers over the years, effective action against the illicit trade has been lacking.
The incident has raised questions over the handling of the operation and the security arrangements made for transporting the seized contraband. Police officials said efforts are ongoing to trace those responsible and recover the stolen liquor.
