Bounty Hunter's Win: Fugitive Liquor Smuggler Bali Mahto Nabbed in Motihari
Motihari police capture rewarded fugitive Bali Mahto in a targeted raid. Read more about the operation to curb liquor smuggling in Bihar.
In a significant blow to the illegal liquor trade in the region, the Motihari police have successfully apprehended Bali Mahto, a notorious fugitive liquor smuggler who had been evading capture for some time. The arrest comes as a victory for law enforcement, as Mahto carried a 5,000 rupee bounty on his head for information leading to his capture.
A Targeted Operation
The operation was carried out under the direct guidance of Superintendent of Police (SP) Swarn Prabhat, who had prioritized the capture of high-profile offenders to maintain law and order. The arrest took place within the jurisdiction of the Jitna police station, following a period of intense surveillance and strategic raids.
Bali Mahto, the son of the late Bhutta Mahto and a resident of Bijbani village, had become a primary target for the authorities. His arrest is linked to a specific case (number 226/26) registered on September 21, 2026, under sections 30(A)/41(1) of the Bihar Prohibition and Excise Act.
A History of Smuggling
Police records reveal that this was not an isolated incident for the accused. Bali Mahto is no stranger to the law, with a total of three separate cases related to liquor smuggling registered against him at the Jitna police station alone.
The persistence of the police paid off during this mission. The operation team, led by Station House Officer (SHO) Sudhir Kumar, worked tirelessly to track the fugitive. The team included:
- SHO Sudhir Kumar (Team Lead)
- Sub-Inspector Shivaji Paswan
- Constable Rajnikant Mandal
- Driver Kumar
Police Warning to Criminals
Following the arrest, SHO Sudhir Kumar issued a stern warning to those engaged in illegal activities. He emphasized that the police will not relent in their pursuit of criminals and that anyone involved in breaking the law will face the full extent of legal consequences.
"Those involved in criminal activities will face the full extent of the law, and our operations against such offenders will continue," stated SHO Kumar.
Local authorities have stated that this enforcement action is part of a larger strategy to deter illegal trade and enhance the overall security and safety of the public in the region.