A police officer lost his life while attempting to stop suspected illegal liquor transportation in Madhya Pradesh's Dewas district.
Khategaon Police Station In-charge, Inspector Dilip Puri, died after an Eicher truck allegedly carrying illicit liquor ran over him during a late-night checking operation on the Indore-Betul Highway near the Nemawar Road area.
The incident occurred in the early hours of November 2, 2026, triggering concern over the growing threat posed by illegal liquor networks.
According to reports, Puri had received information about a suspicious vehicle transporting illegal liquor. He reached the highway with his police team to intercept the truck and prevent its movement.
Truck Driver Allegedly Tried to Escape
During the operation, Puri reportedly approached the vehicle and asked the driver to step out for questioning. However, instead of complying, the driver allegedly accelerated the truck and attempted to escape.
During the incident, Puri fell beneath the moving vehicle, and its rear wheel ran over him, leaving him critically injured. Fellow police personnel immediately rushed him to a nearby hospital, where doctors reportedly attempted CPR and other emergency medical procedures for nearly two hours. Despite their efforts, he could not be saved.
Truck Seized, Driver Taken Into Custody
Following the incident, the driver allegedly fled, abandoning the vehicle near Sandalpur. Police subsequently seized the truck, and reports said the driver was arrested. Investigators are examining the vehicle's contents and the alleged liquor-smuggling operation to establish its source, destination and possible connections.
Investigation Into Liquor-Smuggling Network
Senior police officials, including Dewas Superintendent of Police Aditya Mishra, reached the area following the incident. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding Puri's death and the suspected illegal transportation network.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the Madhya Pradesh Police Department. Inspector Dilip Puri's death highlights the serious risks faced by police personnel during operations against organised illegal activities.
Further investigation is underway to identify everyone allegedly connected to the liquor consignment and determine the full circumstances of the incident.