255 arrested for smuggling PDS rice in one week

CHENNAI: Following stringent action, the Civil Supplies CID arrested 255 persons for smuggling rice kept for Public Distribution System (PDS) and seized 1,877 quintals of rice and 33 vehicles used for smuggling, in one week, from October 3 to October 9.

In a press note, released by the Tamil Nadu government, it is stated that the total value of the seized rice amounts to Rs 10.60 lakh. Action against the smugglers and seizure is taken under Essential Commodities Act, 1955 and Prevention of Blackmarketing and Maintenance of Supplies of Essential Commodities Act, 1980.

Officials of Civil Supplies department also said that action under Goondas Act is recommended against repeated offenders and in one week, 3 persons were detained under Goondas Act.