Crime Madhapur / Jubilee hills

Telangana Excise officials deny allegations from Ariko Cafe amid controversy

Listen to Story
Ariko Cafe excise allegations

Hyderabad: Telangana Excise officials have strongly denied the allegations made by Ariko Cafe, stating that the claims against the Prohibition and Excise Department are “false and baseless.” In a statement released after the cafe’s management accused officials of misconduct, the department urged Ariko Cafe to refrain from making unfounded accusations.

The controversy started when the Excise Department raided Ariko Café in Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad on September 5, 2024. They had received reliable information that the cafe was selling whiskey-infused ice cream. Before the raid, officials posed as customers to confirm the claims.

During a recent operation, officials confiscated various items, including 11.5 kg of whiskey mixture, a bottle of vodka, and olive oil, from both the cafe and its central kitchen. The cafe’s management later alleged that the excise officials pressured their staff to produce whiskey ice cream and demanded a bribe of ₹25,000. They threatened legal action when the demand was not met. The cafe’s management claimed that the officials fabricated evidence, including the seizure of an empty whiskey bottle.

The Excise Department responded by pointing to evidence gathered during the raid. This evidence includes WhatsApp conversations between the cafe staff and task force officials, allegedly confirming the cafe’s involvement in the illegal activity. The seized samples have been sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory, and it reported finding traces of alcohol in the ice cream.

Excise officials stated that they operate discreetly, often blending in with patrons to gather information before conducting raids, which they say is standard procedure. They said, “We act only upon confirming violations, and it is a well-known fact that illegal activities are often denied until evidence is presented.”

The management of Ariko Cafe claims to have CCTV footage that could potentially refute the allegations and is asking for its release to the media. However, excise officials assert that the evidence collected during the raid will speak for itself.

The legitimacy of the claims against Ariko Cafe will be determined by the court, as the case is currently under judicial review. Meanwhile, the Excise Department has restated its request that the cafe management stop making false allegations.