Arrack, fermented wash destroyed in Sandavasal

The illicit liquor and fermented wash were freshly brewed.

Speaking to DT Next, District Forest Officer Archana Kalyani said, “On receipt of information about illicit brewing, I lead a team of forest staff and members of the VFC (Village Forest Council) 2,000 feet up the Shenbagathoppu hill and destroyed the illicit stills located in two places, in addition to throwing away the freshly brewed arrack and fermented wash.”

The operation was undertaken by seven forest officials, including five field staff and 12 VFC members. The team included two village presidents Mahendran and Arjunan.

“The destruction of the stills would provide some solace to residents of Thumbaikadu who had earlier complained that illicit arrack loads being carried down the hill by antisocial elements lead to many problems for the villagers.”

“On hearing the team approaching, those involved in the illicit operation fled,” she said.