SRINAGAR: Two men arrested by Jammu and Kashmir Police for allegedly possessing liquor became an unlikely social media talking point after photographs released by police showed the duo smiling while in custody.
The images, posted by Anantnag Police on X following their arrest during naka checking at Bondialgam Crossing in Anantnag, quickly went viral, with users sharing memes and humorous comments about the men’s expressions.
According to police, the two men were apprehended by a team from Police Post Dialgam during a routine naka at Bondialgam Crossing. Twenty-one bottles of liquor were allegedly recovered from their possession and seized as per law.
Police said both men were taken into custody for further legal proceedings and that FIR No. 320/2026 under Section 48(a) of the Excise Act was registered at Police Station Anantnag. The investigation has been initiated to ascertain further details and possible linkages.
A police official later explained the unusual photographs, saying the two men initially appeared visibly tense when asked to pose for the camera. They were subsequently asked to smile, and the resulting photographs were the ones that spread across social media.
Police reiterated that the operation was part of its ongoing efforts to curb the illegal transportation and possession of liquor and to enforce the law across the district.
