Jalandhar: CCTV footage linked to a raid conducted under the Shahkot police’s “War Against Drugs” campaign has surfaced, raising serious questions about the alleged recovery of illicit liquor in Daulatpur Dhadda village.

CCTV Footage Contradicts Police Claims

According to FIR No. 90 registered at Shahkot police station on April 9, police claimed to have recovered 35 litres of lahan (country liquor) from the residence of Akram, a local resident. The FIR states that the illicit liquor was found stored in a blue drum inside a straw room during a joint operation by police and the excise department.

However, CCTV footage tells a different story. It shows a white SUV arriving in the village street, from which three individuals step out. Soon after, a police team approaches the same house with a black gate. The footage then captures the trunk of the vehicle being opened and a blue drum being taken out by two individuals, contradicting the official version of events.

Seven Police Personnel Seen During Raid

The footage reportedly shows seven police personnel involved in the operation—four in uniform and three in plain clothes. The team is seen entering the house without knocking, despite the gate appearing to be open from inside.

The police also recorded a video of the alleged seizure, sealed the drum, and later removed it from the premises. Notably, CCTV visuals indicate that no one was present inside the house at the time, as no person is seen entering or exiting during the raid.

Accused Missing, Family Silent

Akram, the accused in the case, was not found at his residence even two days after the incident. When questioned, his family members appeared frightened and declined to comment on the police action.

Villagers describe Akram as a labourer and a political worker. They stated that two previous cases had been registered against him—one related to assault and another concerning religious sentiments. The source of the information that led to the raid remains unclear.

Probe Likely, Says DIG

Responding to the development, DIG Naveen Singla said he was not aware of the details of the operation. “If CCTV footage has surfaced, a proper investigation will be carried out to ascertain the facts. If any wrongdoing is established, strict departmental action will be taken against the concerned police personnel,” he said.

The incident has sparked concerns over the conduct of the raid and the authenticity of the claimed recovery, with calls for a transparent inquiry gaining momentum.