A routine raid to crack down on illegal liquor trade spiralled into a dramatic standoff on Wednesday, after enraged villagers in Bechulbhata allegedly held Excise and police officials hostage, demanding the release of three fellow villagers taken away during the operation. The high-voltage drama unfolded on the Korba-Urga road when a joint team of the Excise Department and local police raided the house of Mukesh Uraon following a tip-off on illicit liquor trade. Tension escalated as the team attempted to detain Mukesh, along with his wife and another woman, after they reportedly obstructed the officials during the raid. What began as a crackdown quickly turned volatile when news of the detention spread. Dozens of angry villagers gathered and accused the police of high-handedness. Matters worsened after a woman allegedly suffered a push during the altercation.

 

In retaliation, villagers detained members of the Excise and Police teams, demanding immediate release of those held. Alleging extortion and planted evidence, villagers claimed no liquor was found during the search. “The police bring liquor themselves and exaggerate the quantity for show,” a villager alleged, adding that such raids have become a tool for officials to extract bribes. With the situation threatening to spiral further, Korba City Superintendent of Police (CSP) Bhushan Ekka rushed to the scene with reinforcements. After prolonged discussions, the CSP was able to pacify the villagers and secure the safe release of both the detained officers and the three villagers.