In a major breakthrough for consumer safety, the Jammu Police recently dismantled a dangerous fake paneer syndicate operating in the region. The crackdown resulted in the seizure of over eight quintals (800 kilograms) of adulterated paneer being transported illegally from Delhi to Katra, and the arrest of three individuals allegedly involved in the distribution network.

This disturbing incident raises serious concerns about food safety in Jammu, especially with fake dairy products making their way to local markets and unsuspecting consumers.

Duplicate Paneer Seized in Jammu During Interstate Transport

According to an official spokesperson, a vigilant team from Police Station Bagh-e-Bahu intercepted a suspicious bus during routine checking at Naka Point Bravo-3. The operation was led by the SHO of Bagh-e-Bahu Police Station, under the supervision of the SDPO East, SP South, and SSP Jammu.

The intercepted vehicle, a bus bearing registration number AP-20B-0888, was en route from Delhi to Katra. Upon inspection, the police discovered 800 kilograms of suspected fake paneer, confirming a large-scale illegal operation targeting consumers in the Jammu region.

Adulterated Paneer Meant for Distribution to Local Dairy Shops

The duplicate cheese, packed and disguised for commercial delivery, was allegedly meant for distribution across multiple dairy outlets in Jammu city. Two individuals were caught red-handed unloading the consignment into auto-rickshaws, identified as:

• Arif Hussain, son of Rashid Ahmed, resident of Malik Market (Driver of Auto JK02DG-1890)
• Mysir Bhat, son of Mohd Sharief Bhat, resident of Magam Kokernag, Anantnag (Driver of Auto JK02CN-2757)

The bus driver was identified as Abdul Ahad, a resident of Loran Kharpa, Poonch.

Read also: Jammu & Kashmir Sees Sharp Spike in Road Accidents and Deaths

Initial Investigation Uncovers Key Conspirators

Preliminary police investigations revealed that the adulterated paneer belonged to two individuals suspected of running the fake dairy product syndicate:

• Mohd Iqbal, son of Bashir Ahmed, resident of Takia Kokernag
• Manzoor Ahmad Sardan, son of Mehboob Ahmed Sardan, resident of Kokernag, currently residing near Bus Stand Jammu

Authorities believe these individuals were orchestrating a network of illegal paneer distribution throughout the city. The goal was to circulate substandard or chemically altered cheese to local vendors, thereby endangering public health for profit.

Food Safety Department Launches Parallel Probe

Following the seizure, the Food Safety Department was immediately alerted. Officials arrived on-site to collect samples of the adulterated paneer, which have been sent for laboratory analysis. The outcome of these tests will confirm the extent of contamination and potential health risks to consumers.

The results are also expected to play a crucial role in identifying whether toxic substances or industrial agents were used in manufacturing the duplicate paneer.

Public Health Threat: The Dangers of Fake Dairy Products

Consuming adulterated paneer poses severe health risks, including food poisoning, gastrointestinal disorders, kidney complications, and even long-term chronic illnesses. With increasing reports of fake dairy products entering the Indian market, the need for strict regulation and public awareness has become more urgent than ever.

According to health experts, chemicals like detergents, starch, urea, and synthetic milk compounds are often found in counterfeit paneer, making it a silent health hazard for the public.

Police Urge Citizens to Stay Alert and Report Suspected Food Fraud

While reiterating its dedication to public safety, Jammu Police has called upon citizens to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious activity related to food distribution or dairy sales. The department emphasized the importance of community involvement in curbing such illegal operations.

“Public cooperation is vital in protecting the health of our families and communities. We encourage people to report any unusual food quality or unethical business practices to the nearest police station or food safety authorities,” the spokesperson said.

Investigation Continues to Uncover Full Scope of the Racket

The investigation remains ongoing, with law enforcement officials working to uncover the entire network behind the fake paneer distribution. More arrests are likely as police delve deeper into the source of production, supply chain logistics, and retail connections involved in the operation.

Authorities have also hinted at possible links to interstate food adulteration syndicates, suggesting that this may be part of a broader national issue affecting consumer trust and food security.

This incident serves as a critical reminder of the growing threat of food adulteration in India, particularly in vulnerable regions where consumer awareness and regulatory enforcement may lag. The Jammu Police’s swift action has undoubtedly prevented a potential public health disaster, but the battle against fake food products continues.

As consumers, the onus also lies on us to be cautious—buy paneer and dairy products only from reputed shops, check for quality certifications, and report anything suspicious to the authorities.

With increased collaboration between law enforcement, health departments, and vigilant citizens, we can ensure that our food remains safe, genuine, and trustworthy.