The law-and-order situation in Bihar’s Gopalganj district has once again come under the spotlight. In a shocking series of events, liquor mafias have claimed two lives within just two days, spreading fear across the region. Despite continuous action from law enforcement agencies, the unchecked dominance of the liquor mafia is now a matter of grave concern.
Dial 112 Driver Shot Dead by Liquor Mafia
The violence began on Friday when criminals associated with the liquor mafia opened fire on a Dial 112 driver. This incident shook the district police as they scrambled to investigate the case and bring the culprits to justice. While the investigation into that murder was still ongoing, the liquor mafia struck again with even greater brutality.
Home Guard Killed During Duty
On Saturday morning, another shocking crime unfolded near the Sipaya Engineering College in Vishambharpur. A Home Guard on duty with the excise department lost his life in an attack by liquor smugglers.
The victim has been identified as Abhishek Kumar Sharma. He was a resident of Bangal Khad village in Kuchaykot and the son of Badshah Sharma. Abhishek was serving with the excise department team when he was targeted.
According to reports, at around 4:30 AM, the excise department’s Balthari team received a tip about a large consignment of illegal liquor being smuggled. Acting swiftly, the team rushed to intercept the smugglers near Sipaya crossing.
Attack by Smugglers
As the excise team tried to stop the smugglers, the criminals retaliated aggressively. In the chaos, the smugglers pushed the security personnel, leading to a violent scuffle.
During the clash, Abhishek Kumar Sharma fell to the ground and suffered a severe head injury. Excessive bleeding worsened his condition. Despite efforts to rush him to the Sadar Hospital, he succumbed to his injuries on the way.
Another personnel was also injured in the attack, though his injuries were reported to be minor.
Family Alleges Conspiracy
The family of the deceased is devastated by the incident. They have alleged that the attack was not random but a planned conspiracy by the liquor mafia to eliminate security personnel.
According to the family, Abhishek had been actively involved in cracking down on liquor smuggling operations in the area. This, they believe, made him a direct target of the mafia.
Ongoing Liquor Mafia Threat in Bihar
The incident once again exposes the growing influence of liquor mafias in Bihar. Despite the state’s strict prohibition laws, liquor smuggling continues to thrive across several districts, including Gopalganj.
Illegal networks operate with alarming confidence, often attacking law enforcement officials and government personnel. The killing of two men in just 48 hours highlights the dangers faced by those tasked with enforcing prohibition in Bihar.
Public Fear and Anger
The twin murders have triggered fear among local residents. Villagers expressed their anger, stating that the liquor mafia has become emboldened due to weak enforcement and political shielding. People now fear for their safety, especially government staff posted on excise duty in high-risk areas.
The public outrage also reflects frustration at the state’s inability to control such organized crime. Locals demand stronger action against liquor syndicates, including harsher punishments and tighter monitoring.
Excise Department’s Struggle
The excise department plays a key role in enforcing prohibition in Bihar. However, the department has limited manpower and resources compared to the scale of the illegal trade.
Teams often receive intelligence about large consignments but face challenges in intercepting smugglers who use advanced methods and networks to transport liquor. Attacks on officers and staff are now becoming frequent, raising questions about the safety of personnel.
Police Response to the Incident
Police officials in Gopalganj confirmed that a case has been registered against unidentified liquor smugglers. Raids are being conducted in multiple locations to trace the attackers. Senior officers also reached the spot and assured that strict action will be taken.
However, critics argue that police action often comes only after lives are lost. Many believe proactive measures are needed to dismantle the mafia’s network instead of reactive crackdowns.
Abhishek Kumar Sharma: A Life Cut Short
Abhishek Kumar Sharma’s death has brought immense grief to his family and community. Known as a dedicated personnel, he was respected for his sincerity towards duty.
His sacrifice highlights the risks faced by ground-level staff in the fight against liquor smuggling. The community remembers him as a young and brave guard who stood firm against organized crime but lost his life in the process.
Growing Questions on Prohibition Policy
The tragedy has also reignited debates around Bihar’s prohibition policy. Critics say that while the ban on liquor aimed to curb social issues, it has created fertile ground for black markets and mafia activity.
Supporters of the policy argue that the law must remain, but enforcement mechanisms need strengthening. Without strict monitoring and resources, prohibition continues to burden enforcement staff without effectively reducing demand for alcohol.
Demand for Stronger Action
The deaths in Gopalganj have sparked calls for tougher measures against liquor mafias. Local leaders and community members are urging the state government to provide better equipment, vehicles, and protective gear to excise staff.
There is also demand for higher-level intervention, with stricter laws and faster trials for those involved in mafia crimes. Families of victims are demanding justice, compensation, and stronger guarantees of safety for officers serving on prohibition duty.
The killing of Abhishek Kumar Sharma and the earlier murder of a Dial 112 driver expose the dangerous dominance of liquor mafias in Gopalganj. These back-to-back incidents highlight the urgent need for stricter enforcement and better protection for personnel on duty.
For the people of Bihar, the fight against liquor mafias is no longer just about enforcing prohibition laws—it is about ensuring the safety of officers, restoring public confidence, and curbing the violent grip of organized crime.
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