(2)On production of the said seized property under sub-section (1), the Deputy Commissioner of Prohibition and Excise if satisfied that an offence under this Act has been committed may whether or not a prosecution is instituted for the commission of such an offence, order confiscation of such property:[Provided that the Deputy Commissioner of Prohibition and Excise specially empowered in that behalf may accept such sum of money as may be prescribed in lieu of confiscation and release the animals or vessels or carts or other vehicles reasonably suspected of involvement in any offence falling under sub-clause (i) of clause (b) of section 8 of this Act.]
