Illegal Wine Manufacturing Unit Raided

On September 22, 2025, the excise department, under the guidance of the joint commissioner of excise for Mangaluru division and the deputy commissioner of excise for Dakshina Kannada, conducted a raid at Lobo Lane, Kadri. The operation targeted an illegal wine manufacturing unit operated by Michael Blaze Menezes, leading to his arrest.

Seizure Details

Officials seized:

  • 238.5 liters of spurious wine
  • 1,500 liters of fermented liquid used for wine-making
  • 3.18 liters of liquor
  • Equipment used for preparing counterfeit wine

The total estimated value of the seized items is around ₹5,57,690.

Legal Action

Menezes was booked under multiple sections of the Karnataka Excise Act, 1965, including 13(1)(a), 13(1)(f), 14, 15, 32(1), 32(2)(e), 34, and 38(A). The case was registered at the Mangaluru South Range–1 office by excise sub-inspector Harish P.

Conclusion

The raid highlights the excise department’s proactive measures against illegal alcohol production in Karnataka. Authorities have urged the public to report illegal manufacturing activities to curb the circulation of spurious alcohol.