3 Arrested for Stealing Ambulance from Ghaziabad, Modifying It to Smuggle Liquor to Dry Bihar

The Heist: Ambulance Theft

On the night of June 15, 2025, an ambulance parked in Ghaziabad’s Udalnagar area was stolen by a gang of three—one of whom was identified as a father-son duo. The theft was reported early next morning after GPS tracking revealed the vehicle’s movement

The Smuggling Plan

The culprits modified the ambulance by changing its registration plates, installing Bihar-issued plates, and creating a hidden compartment to store liquor. Their plan: exploit the ambulance’s siren and appearance to bypass police checkpoints en route to Bihar, where alcohol remains banned

Police Intercept in Meerut

Meerut police tracked the GPS signal and intercepted the ambulance in Hapur Road, near a garage where the suspects were re-plateing it. All three suspects were arrested before they could cross into Uttar Pradesh–Bihar border .

Investigation & Evidence

Authorities seized the ambulance, its altered plates, and a concealed compartment. A police official confirmed the trio modified the vehicle specifically to smuggle liquor, timing their arrest just in time

Legal Implications

The accused face charges of vehicle theft, forgery (plate swapping), violating the Bihar Prohibition law, and conspiracy. The father-son team heightens the gravity as organized criminal enterprise. A detailed investigation, including mobile forensics and questioning, is ongoing .

Why It Matters: Bihar’s Dry Law

Since April 2016, Bihar has strictly enforced prohibition, banning sale and purchase of alcohol. Punishments include fines, imprisonment, and vehicle confiscation. Smugglers regularly employ inventive methods—from milk tankers last month to ambulances now—to evade law enforcement .