A high-profile birthday party in Surat ended in a late-night confrontation after police seized liquor from a hotel and detained a 19-year-old who tried to obstruct the raid. His father, businessman Sameer Shah, was also arrested for alleged violation of Gujarat’s prohibition law.
The incident unfolded at a hotel in the Althan area, where officers raided a birthday celebration after receiving a tip-off on liquor being served in violation of state rules. Gujarat has been a dry state since 1960, with strict penalties for possession and consumption of alcohol.
“We received information about liquor being brought to the venue. A team was sent to verify and take legal action,” said Nidhi Thakur of Surat City Police, confirming the seizure.
During the raid, a video which is now widely shared on social media, showed the teenager stepping out of a car, attempting to snatch an officer’s mobile phone and pushing past personnel during the confrontation. Guests tried to intervene as police restrained him.
Liquor seized, father and son arrested
According to police, a team led by the sub-inspector of Althan Police Station confiscated a carton of beer cans, bottles, a mobile phone and a car, valued at ₹3.16 lakh.
Around 200 guests were present, though officers said it was unclear how many had consumed alcohol. A breathalyser test showed the 19-year-old was not drunk, but police moved ahead with legal action since the liquor was found in the vehicle.
The teen and his father were arrested from the spot. Shah’s wife was also seen in the video attempting to pacify the situation as officers proceeded with the seizure and detention.
Police said further questioning is underway and more names could be added to the FIR depending on the investigation.
