Ahead of India’s Diwali festival, Surat city police busted a large-scale counterfeit ghee production and distribution ring, arresting four individuals and seizing nearly 9,919 kg of fake ghee valued at approximately 53 lakh rupees (about $64,000).
According to authorities, the total value of confiscated products and equipment in the operation is estimated at 1.20 crore rupees (roughly $145,000).
The arrested suspects are Jayesh Maisuriya (38), Ankit Panchiwala (36), Sumit Maisuriya (35), and Dinesh Gehlot (32). They allegedly operated three facilities in Amroli, using vegetable oil and chemicals to create a product mimicking the texture, color, and aroma of authentic ghee.
This counterfeit ghee was then sold in slum area grocery stores at significantly lower prices than genuine products. Manufacturers sold it for under 500 rupees/kg ($6), while retailers priced it around 675 rupees/kg ($8).
The crackdown, led by Police Inspector AS Sonara under the supervision of Deputy Commissioner Rajdeepsinh Nakum, targeted three locations simultaneously.
Initial investigations reveal the syndicate has been operating for two years, supplying counterfeit ghee to local shops, particularly in low-income areas.
In August, Gujarat’s Food and Drug Control Administration (FDCA) seized over 12 tons of suspected adulterated ghee worth 81 lakh rupees during raids across multiple districts. The operation targeted dairy companies suspected of using cheap palm oil and vegetable fats to adulterate ghee.
The largest seizure occurred in Surat, where 10 tons of ghee valued at 65 lakh rupees were confiscated after three samples failed quality tests. At another dairy farm, 11 tons of ghee worth 10 lakh rupees were destroyed when all samples failed to meet standards. Additionally, a 448 kg batch worth 2.75 lakh rupees was found non-compliant.
This latest incident underscores the widespread and serious nature of counterfeit ghee production in Gujarat. Authorities urge consumers to exercise caution, especially during Diwali when demand for dairy products like ghee surges.
The government pledges to expand investigations and rigorously crack down on counterfeit food production networks to safeguard public health and ensure food safety during the festive season.
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