Key Update

The Delhi Police’s Crime Branch busted a highly organised racket involved in the illegal importation, repackaging, and sale of expired international food products from top brands. Officers seized consignments worth ₹4.3 crore, including 43,762 kg of food items, 14,665 litres of beverages, 6,047 kg of candies, biscuits and wafers, and 23,050 kg of sauces, vinegars, and other condiments.

Accused of selling expired products to Premium Stores and Online Platforms

The accused bought expired or near-expiry branded food products at throwaway prices from abroad. They sold them as fresh imports to premium grocery chains such as Modern Bazaar and Nature’s Basket, as well as to multiple e-commerce platforms. Police have arrested seven people in connection with the case so far.

Seized Stock Included Popular Global Brands

The seized items carried labels of well-known international brands, including Oreo, Lipton, Ritz, Kellogg’s, Fanta, Starbucks, Nescafé, Heinz, Hellmann’s, Kikkoman, Lindt, Nutella, Cadbury, Pringles, and Lay’s. Officers confirmed that several of the seized products included baby food and other sensitive consumables, posing a serious threat to public health.

Racket Altered Expiry Dates and Repackaged Food

Police identified Atal Jaiswal (54) as the mastermind behind the operation. He imported expired or nearly expired food consignments through Mumbai-based wholesale agents who sourced products from the UK, the US, Dubai, and other countries. Instead of destroying unfit food as required by law, the accused altered manufacturing and expiry dates, changed product labels, affixed fake barcodes and MRPs, and repackaged the items to make them appear freshly imported.

Cyber Cell Conducted Raids in Sadar Bazar

The Cyber Cell of the Crime Branch carried out the operation following intelligence inputs. Teams conducted raids in the Pahari Dheeraj and Faiz Ganj areas of Sadar Bazar, a major wholesale hub in Delhi. Officials from the Delhi government’s Food Safety department joined the operation, collected samples as per protocol, and seized the consignments.

Police Recover Forgery Machinery, Probe Continues

During the raids, police recovered hand-held inkjet printers, sealing machines, chemicals, glue guns, cartridges, and fake barcode stickers. The recovery confirmed the existence of a full-fledged illegal repackaging and adulteration unit. Police have registered a case under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and continue investigations to trace the supply chain and identify retail and online buyers involved.

Source: The Indian Express