The district administration in Mokokchung, Nagaland, has officially announced a zero-tolerance policy targeting the sale, transportation, and storage of alcohol. This decisive move comes in the wake of recent reports detailing tragic deaths and multiple hospitalizations suspected to be linked directly to the consumption of spurious liquor across the Mangkolemba Sub-Division and surrounding areas within the district.
Emergency Coordination Meeting Convened
The strict policy decision was finalized during an urgent coordination meeting held on September 26 at the office of Deputy Commissioner Ajit Kumar Verma. The high-level session brought together key officials from various enforcement agencies, local ward authorities, village councils, civil society organizations, and other primary stakeholders. Participants gathered to thoroughly evaluate the escalating situation and establish a unified framework to prevent any further tragic incidents related to illegal brewing.
Seizure and Destruction of Banned Stock
Addressing the media following the meeting, Deputy Commissioner Ajit Kumar Verma stated that the firm resolution was adopted specifically due to the alarming and serious conditions prevailing across the district. Emphasizing strict legal compliance, Verma stated that any existing stock of banned and prohibited liquor found in the possession of individuals must be seized immediately and destroyed according to the relevant provisions of the law. The administration initially learned of the suspected poisoning incidents originating from the Mangkolemba subdivision, prompting coordinated raids alongside police forces, area administrative officers, and the Health Department.
Health Warnings and Public Advisories
District authorities have confirmed that enforcement sweeps will be significantly stepped up throughout Mokokchung, bolstered by active cooperation from town, village, and ward councils along with civil society groups. Officials issued a direct public appeal urging residents to completely refrain from purchasing or consuming alcohol under the current circumstances. Individuals who have consumed alcohol within the preceding 48 hours and subsequently developed symptoms such as dizziness, blurred vision, breathing difficulties, nausea, severe abdominal pain, or loss of consciousness have been strongly urged to seek immediate medical evaluation at the nearest primary health unit and report the incident to local authorities.
Intensified Police Surveillance Across Jurisdictions
In tandem with the administrative orders, the Mokokchung Police department has mandated intensified enforcement measures across the entire district with immediate effect under the provisions of the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition Act, 1989. An official directive issued by Senior Superintendent of Police Vesupra Kezo instructed all station house officers within the district to heighten patrolling and surveillance. Police personnel were directed to take uncompromising legal action against the illegal sale, storage, and distribution of alcohol across residential colonies, local shops, dhabas, hotels, private houses, and other commercial premises.
Public Reporting Helplines Established
To ensure robust community participation, the administration has requested citizens to report any suspicious transportation or illicit trading of alcohol directly to law enforcement. Residents can reach out to the Mokokchung Police at 6009828769, the Mangkolemba Police at 7005675868, and the Tuli Police at 7005512093 to share actionable intelligence regarding illegal liquor networks.
