Coimbatore: More than 3,550 rowdies and troublemakers were arrested from across the eight districts in the western Tamil Nadu in the past 15 days as per the orders of inspector general of police (west zone) P Sudhakar.
The officer has also warned of strict action against the people indulging in illegal activities.
In a press note, the inspector general’s office said they were cracking down on illicit arrack trade, liquor smuggling, ganja peddling, sale of banned lottery tickets and gambling from June 1 to 15, despite the lockdown.
“We have registered 1,959 cases, arrested 3,550 people and seized Rs 4.78 lakh cash, 110 four-wheelers and 445 two-wheelers during the crackdown from across the eight districts in the western region.” Police have seized 2,12,497 litres of brandy, 7,508 litres of other arrack and 2,547 litres of toddy during the period.
At least 1,740 people were arrested only for indulging in illegal procurement, preparation and sale of liquor when Tasmac shops were shut in the region.
Police have registered 33 ganja peddling cases, arrested 56 people and seized 43kg contraband during the period, when 167 gambling cases were also filed and 806 people were imprisoned for the offence.
At least 29 people were arrested for possession of banned lottery tickets for sale in 19 cases.
tnn