In a landmark crackdown on organised liquor smuggling, the Valsad Police have, for the first time, invoked the Gujarat Control of Terrorism and Organised Crime (GUJSICTOC) Act against an alleged bootlegging syndicate operating across South Gujarat. The action marks a significant escalation in the state’s fight against organised illegal liquor networks despite Gujarat’s prohibition laws.
Police have registered a case against six alleged bootleggers involved in large-scale liquor smuggling from neighbouring Union Territories and Maharashtra into Gujarat. Two key accused have already been arrested, while efforts are underway to apprehend the remaining members of the gang.
Major Crackdown on Organised Liquor Smuggling Network
According to Valsad Police, the accused were allegedly running a well-organised liquor smuggling operation by transporting foreign liquor from Daman, Dadra & Nagar Haveli, and Maharashtra into Gujarat.
Officials stated that despite facing multiple criminal cases in the past, the accused repeatedly secured bail and resumed their illegal activities. Considering the organised nature of the crimes and their repeated involvement, police decided to invoke the stringent provisions of the GUJSICTOC Act.
Six Accused Named in the Case
The police have booked the following six accused:
- Nilesh Thakor alias Nilyo Ghodo
- Kiran Patel
- Bhavesh Patel
- Soham alias Sunny Patel
- Pintu Patel
- Keyur Patel
Among them, Nilesh Thakor and Kiran Patel have been arrested, while search operations are continuing to trace the remaining accused.
Police Identify Nilesh Thakor as Alleged Mastermind
Investigators believe that Nilesh Thakor alias “Nilyo Ghodo” played a central role in coordinating the organised liquor smuggling network. According to officials, the syndicate allegedly operated across multiple districts of South Gujarat and maintained an organised supply chain for transporting prohibited liquor into the state. Police expect additional revelations during custodial interrogation.
Why GUJSICTOC Was Invoked
The Gujarat Control of Terrorism and Organised Crime (GUJSICTOC) Act is generally used against organised criminal syndicates involved in serious offences. Valsad Police stated that the gang’s repeated criminal activities, structured operations, and organised network justified the use of the stringent law.
Officials believe the action will serve as a strong deterrent against similar organised bootlegging networks operating across Gujarat.
Multiple Criminal Cases Already Registered
Police records indicate that several criminal cases have previously been registered against the accused across South Gujarat.
The offences reportedly include:
- Illegal liquor smuggling
- Organised bootlegging
- Criminal intimidation
- Forgery and fake documentation
- Other serious offences under various laws
Authorities alleged that the accused continued illegal activities despite repeated legal action.
Illegal Wealth Under Investigation
Police are also investigating assets allegedly acquired using proceeds from organised liquor smuggling.
Investigators suspect that money earned through illegal operations was invested in:
- Real estate
- Commercial businesses
- Other financial assets
Authorities are examining financial records and may initiate proceedings to attach illegally acquired properties if evidence supports the allegations.
Strong Message Against Organised Crime
Valsad Police said the use of GUJSICTOC demonstrates the department’s commitment to dismantling organised criminal networks rather than merely arresting individual offenders. Officials added that the investigation remains ongoing and additional arrests are expected as police continue tracing other members and associates linked to the syndicate.
Conclusion
The Valsad Police’s decision to invoke the GUJSICTOC Act against an alleged bootlegging syndicate marks a major milestone in Gujarat’s crackdown on organised liquor smuggling. With two key accused already in custody and investigations into illegal assets underway, authorities aim to dismantle the entire network and strengthen enforcement against organised crime in the region.
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