Kukatpally toddy deaths aftermath: Telangana STF arrests 5, seizes 420 litres of alcoholic sap

Hyderabad: The State Task Force (STF) of the Telangana Excise and Prohibition Department has launched a massive crackdown, arresting five people for selling and transporting toddy without valid licenses.

The operations led to the seizure of 420 litres of toddy and six two-wheelers across various parts of Hyderabad in three separate cases.

The actions follow alarming incidents in Kukatpally, where the consumption of adulterated toddy recently led to multiple deaths and the hospitalisation of several others, raising serious public safety concerns across the city.

Raids across multiple locations

During inspections in Nalla Cheruvu, Uppal, officials intercepted three men – Ranga Srikanth, Lodi Anil, and Badiga Naveen – who were transporting 25 litres of toddy on motorcycles without permits.

In a separate raid at Ghatkesar, one person, Lodi Sandeep, was caught ferrying 82 litres of toddy, which was seized on the spot.

Large seizure from two men

Another operation led to the arrest of Lodi Mahender and Mada Ramesh, who were found with 124 litres of toddy in their possession. All seized samples have been sent for forensic examination to check for adulteration.

Depot inspections conducted

The Task Force also conducted inspections at three toddy depots in Saroornagar, Ramanthapur, and Uppal. Samples collected from these locations were forwarded to laboratories for detailed analysis.

Authorities are investigating the use of sedative substances such as alprazolam, mixed into toddy, typically sold in unlicensed outlets. Officials have warned of stringent action against unauthorised sellers and transporters to curb the menace.