Fake Ghee Racket Busted In Gujarat: Police Seize ₹1.67 Crore Stock From Chhatral Factory

A major fake ghee manufacturing unit operating in Chhatral GIDC near Gandhinagar has been busted by the Gujarat Police, leading to the seizure of adulterated products and raw materials worth around ₹1.67 crore. Investigators say the factory allegedly used palm oil and chemicals to produce counterfeit ghee that was later sold in the market under the labels of well-known brands.

The raid was carried out by the police after receiving specific intelligence, exposing what officials believe was a large-scale adulteration network supplying thousands of litres of fake ghee every month across the state.

Police raid exposes large-scale adulteration

Acting on intelligence received by Range DIG Virendrasinh Yadav, a police team raided a unit operating under the name Happy Oil Industries at Godown No. D/48 in Yogeshwar Estate, Chhatral GIDC in Kalol taluka.

Police found large quantities of refined palm oil, crude palm oil and chemicals allegedly being mixed to manufacture fake ghee. Following the discovery, senior Food Safety Officers and Scientific Officers from Gandhinagar were called to the site to inspect the premises and collect samples.

Authorities seized thousands of kilograms of the suspected fake ghee stored in barrels and tin containers. The total value of the seized stock and raw materials has been estimated at approximately ₹1.67 crore.

The samples have been sealed and sent to a laboratory for detailed analysis.

Factory allegedly supplied 30,000 litres every month

According to the preliminary investigation, the factory was allegedly producing around 30,000 litres of counterfeit ghee every month.

Police suspect traders purchased the bulk product before repackaging it with counterfeit labels of reputed brands and distributing it in the retail market. Investigators are now working to identify the buyers and trace the wider distribution network.

Ahmedabad man identified as alleged mastermind

Police have identified Janakkumar Nathalal Bhavsar, a resident of Chandlodiya in Ahmedabad, as the person allegedly operating the illegal unit.

Investigators said Bhavsar had previously faced action in 2024 in connection with a similar fake ghee operation. They allege that after the earlier case, he shifted operations and established a new manufacturing unit in Chhatral GIDC to continue the illegal business.

Questions raised over food safety enforcement

The raid has also raised questions over the functioning of the Food and Drugs Department, with reports suggesting the alleged operation continued despite growing concerns over the sale of adulterated food products in Gujarat.

Police have launched a detailed investigation into the case, and more arrests and revelations are expected as officials examine the seized material, laboratory reports and supply chain records.