Hidden within an under-construction structure shielded by asbestos roofing, the facility was equipped for mass production of fake alcohol mimicking popular brands. The excise squad seized massive quantities of packaging materials: empty 180ml bottles from Royal Challenge (80 crates), Black Dog (59 crates), and Signature (1 crate), along with labels for high-end labels like Imperial Blue (15 bundles), bottle caps (5 crates), a punching machine, empty cartons (15 bundles), and sealing tapes (4 crates).

Spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Arvind Kujur confirmed the operation’s success in disrupting a key smuggling hub. Excise Inspector Kongres Kumar highlighted the sophisticated setup, designed to flood markets with dangerous adulterated liquor.

With festivals boosting black-market demand, such factories exploit vulnerable consumers by selling cheap, toxic substitutes. Health experts repeatedly caution against the perils of spurious drinks, which have caused numerous fatalities in the past.

Legal action under excise laws is progressing as teams hunt for the operators. This bust is part of a broader campaign to purify the supply chain, promising safer celebrations for Holi revelers in Jharkhand.