Thane, May 10 — Authorities have seized a truck carrying rice meant for the Public Distribution System (PDS) that was allegedly being illegally diverted for export purposes in Navi Mumbai, officials confirmed on Saturday.
Acting on a tip-off, the police intercepted the truck on May 7 at Palaspe Phata in Panvel. The vehicle was found loaded with 1,279 bags of fortified rice, clearly marked for PDS distribution, with a total estimated value of ₹9.7 lakh.
"When we questioned the driver, he claimed the consignment was intended for a private company in the area," said a police official involved in the operation. "However, further examination revealed the rice was fortified and labelled for PDS use, which raised immediate red flags."
Investigations traced the origin of the rice to Khalapur, with findings suggesting that the consignment was to be handed over to a Container Freight Station (CFS) agent, likely for export. Officials also noted signs of adulteration in the foodgrains, reinforcing suspicions of criminal misuse.
Following the seizure, a case has been registered under the Essential Commodities Act and relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) against both the transporter and the owner of the industrial unit from where the rice was sourced.
Authorities have confirmed that further investigations are underway to identify all parties involved in the illegal diversion and potential smuggling operation.