Surat city police have uncovered a sophisticated liquor smuggling operation that exploited fake tourist permits. Acting on a tip-off, authorities intercepted an SUV near SK Nagar bridge and seized 216 beer tins along with the vehicle. Four individuals were arrested in connection with the racket, which involved forging tourist permit forms to falsely claim legal possession of liquor.

The accused obtained blank permit forms from a tour operator, filled them out, and had them stamped by a notary to make them appear genuine. Police discovered that the forms were used to mislead officials, while the actual permit holders had not been in the country for months. Investigators clarified that only the prohibition and excise department can issue valid permits, which allow limited quantities of liquor for personal use.