The Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, with its proximity to coastal routes and neighboring states, is vulnerable to smuggling activities. The smuggling of liquor, cigarettes, and other contraband remains a persistent challenge for the region’s law enforcement agencies. Despite stringent measures, the porous borders and extensive coastline make it an attractive route for illegal activities.
Key Smuggling Issues
- Liquor Smuggling
Daman and Diu are known for their liberal alcohol policies compared to neighboring Gujarat, where alcohol is prohibited. This discrepancy has led to the widespread smuggling of liquor across state borders. Smugglers often use private vehicles, trucks, and even small boats to transport alcohol into Gujarat. - Cigarette and Drug Contraband
Illegal cigarette imports, often evading taxes, find their way into the region. Additionally, the smuggling of narcotics and psychotropic substances is a growing concern, with maritime routes being exploited to transport these illicit goods. - Electronic Goods and Luxury Items
The UT’s coastal connectivity makes it a hotspot for smuggling electronic goods, gold, and other high-value items, bypassing customs duties.
Challenges for Law Enforcement
- Geographic Factors: The region’s extensive coastline and proximity to neighboring states make it difficult to monitor every entry point effectively.
- Cross-Border Collaboration: Coordination with neighboring state police and maritime agencies is crucial but can sometimes be bureaucratically delayed.
- Advanced Smuggling Techniques: Smugglers use innovative methods, including concealment in vehicles, altering routes, and using smaller fishing boats that blend with local maritime traffic.
Police Efforts and Initiatives
- Surveillance and Patrolling
The local police, in collaboration with the Indian Coast Guard and customs officials, have increased patrolling along key entry points, including coastal regions and border areas. Advanced surveillance systems such as CCTV cameras and drones are also being deployed to monitor suspicious activities. - Checkpoints and Seizures
Frequent roadblocks, vehicle checks, and random inspections at key highways and entry points have led to significant seizures of liquor, cigarettes, and other contraband. - Awareness Campaigns
The police conduct campaigns to encourage locals to report smuggling activities and raise awareness about the legal repercussions of participating in such trades. - Inter-Agency Collaboration
Collaborative efforts between the Daman and Diu Police, Central Bureau of Narcotics, and Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) have improved intelligence sharing, leading to targeted crackdowns.
By adopting a multi-pronged approach involving technology, community participation, and inter-agency coordination, the law enforcement agencies in Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu are working diligently to curb smuggling and ensure the Union Territory remains secure.