Operation Bar Code: VACB carries out checks at bar hotels, excise offices across Kerala

The Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB) on Monday conducted surprise checks at bar hotels and excise circle offices across the State following information about the alleged sale of illegal and spurious liquor, officials said.

The VACB, in a statement, said the checks were conducted under an operation code-named “Bar Code” at 66 bar hotels and the excise offices concerned from 10 a.m.

According to the VACB, information was received that some bars were selling illegal or spurious liquor, commonly referred to as “seconds,” and that certain excise officials were allegedly accepting monthly bribes and liquor from bar owners to avoid inspections and action.

The VACB said that during the New Year season, when liquor consumption increases, some bar hotels violate the Abkari Act, the Foreign Liquor Rules, and licence conditions to make excess profits, allegedly with the connivance of excise officials.

The agency also received information that liquor procured at lower prices from neighbouring States and Union Territories was being smuggled into Kerala and sold through bars, the VACB said.

It was also alleged that such liquor was mixed with liquor purchased through the Kerala State Beverages Corporation and spirit to produce blended liquor for illegal sale.

The VACB said the findings of the checks would be examined and further action will be taken based on the outcome of the inspections.