Seven bootleggers arrested

BERHAMPUR/ODISHA: At least seven bootleggers were arrested from different areas of Ganjam district in Odisha as the police and excise personnel launched a crackdown on unauthorized sale and manufacture of liquor.

The raids were conducted in Gopalpur, Golanthara, Nuagaon and Chhatrapur areas since Friday following the death of a man after allegedly consuming liquor at Nua Golabandh village on Thursday night.

As many as 14 persons were undergoing treatment in different hospitals here as they fell ill after consuming liquor at the same place.

At lease seven persons have so far been arrested since the raids began on Friday in connection with illegal sale and manufacture of liquor, said an official.

"Police and excise personnel conducted raids in the village and its adjoining areas," said district collector Krishan Kumar.

Medical teams also camped in the affected and nearby villages to treat the affected persons, he said.

But there was no fresh case was reported from the area, added chief district medical officer, Ganjam, S K Routray.