Pune, Maharashtra – A significant inter-district milk adulteration racket has been exposed in Maharashtra, leading to the arrest of 13 individuals and the seizure of materials valued at more than ₹2 crore. The joint operation was conducted by the Pune Rural Police and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), targeting a network that supplied chemically adulterated milk across several districts.
Operation Uncovers Widespread Adulteration
The crackdown involved coordinated raids across five locations, with Manchar identified as the primary hub of the illegal operation. Other targeted areas included Akluj, Ahilyanagar, Sillod, and Sangli. A dedicated team comprising 30 members from the Pune Rural Local Crime Branch and over 20 FDA officials executed the raids, following an extensive investigation into the illicit manufacturing and distribution of synthetic milk.
Investigators revealed that the accused allegedly mixed approximately 500 litres of chemically prepared synthetic milk with every 1,000 litres of genuine milk before supplying it to consumers. The synthetic concoction was reportedly made using various chemicals, milk powder, and even shampoo, posing severe health risks to the public.
Health Concerns and Ongoing Investigation
Officials from the FDA emphasized the serious health implications of consuming such adulterated products. Beyond defrauding consumers, the use of industrial chemicals and non-food grade substances in milk can lead to various illnesses and long-term health complications.
The joint operation was spearheaded under the guidance of Pune Rural Superintendent of Police Sandeep Singh Gill and FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe. Authorities are continuing their investigation to identify the full extent of the network, including its financing channels and entire supply chain. Police are also examining whether the adulterated milk reached major dairies, local vendors, or other intermediaries in Pune and neighboring districts, with the possibility of more arrests as the probe progresses.