A 40-year-old milk seller has been arrested in Mumbai’s Malad East for allegedly adulterating branded milk and repackaging it into counterfeit packets of popular dairy labels, authorities said. The arrest followed a joint operation by the Crime Branch and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) after officials received intelligence about suspected milk tampering in the area.
Raid Conducted After Intelligence Inputs
According to officials, the FDA received information from Crime Branch Unit 12 regarding an alleged milk adulteration operation in Malad East. Acting on the tip-off, an FDA team and police personnel conducted a raid on April 10 at around 5:55 am at a premises located in Kasam Baug, Malad East.
The accused, identified as Saidul Chaugoni, was found at the location and informed officials that he was engaged in the milk-selling business. Authorities said he initially refused inspection before later cooperating with the team.
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Officials Recover Tampered Packets and Packaging Equipment
During the search, authorities allegedly recovered thousands of tampered milk packets, empty branded milk bags, and counterfeit packaging labelled as “Amul Taaza,” “Amul Gold,” and “Amul Buffalo.” Investigators also seized candles, scissors, tongs, lighters, funnels, strainers, and other equipment allegedly used in the adulteration and repackaging process.
Officials stated that the accused allegedly removed milk from original branded packets, mixed it with dirty water, and then repackaged the diluted milk into counterfeit branded pouches for resale. The packets were reportedly not properly sealed.
Accused Allegedly Confessed During Investigation
Authorities said the accused later admitted to the alleged adulteration activities during questioning. Police seized all recovered milk packets and related equipment from the premises as part of the investigation.
Case Registered Under Food Adulteration and Criminal Laws
Police have registered a case under Section 274 relating to adulteration of food or drink intended for sale, along with other relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Food Safety and Standards Act. The accused was subsequently arrested, and further investigation is underway.
