Nagpur: In a late-night crackdown under Operation Thunder, the Narcotics, Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) team, in collaboration with Ambazari and Sitabuldi police stations, raided multiple bars in Nagpur found operating beyond legal hours. The action was carried out under the direction of Commissioner of Police Dr. Ravinder Kumar Singal, with an aim to curb violations related to excise laws and ensure public safety.

During the surprise inspections around 4:00 AM, three prominent establishments — Barrel Café, Lahori Bar, and Martini Lounge — were found serving food and alcohol well past the government-mandated closing time of 1:30 AM. This blatant breach of rules prompted immediate legal action.

While the Excise Department initiated proceedings against Barrel Café, local police teams swiftly booked Lahori Bar and Martini Lounge for violating norms. Officials emphasized that such late-night operations not only flout licensing terms but also raise serious concerns regarding safety, crowd control, and potential drug or alcohol-related offences.

The Nagpur Police confirmed that similar unannounced inspections will be carried out regularly across various city hotspots to identify and penalize erring establishments. Citizens have been urged to support law-abiding businesses and report any suspicious or unauthorized activity.

This coordinated action sends a strong message: unauthorized nightlife activities will not be tolerated, and strict enforcement will follow any breach of law. Authorities reiterated their commitment to building a safer and more disciplined urban environment through community participation and robust policing.