Crime Branch Raids Ambazari Hookah Parlour; Two Arrested
Crime Branch raided a hookah parlour in Ambazari, arresting two individuals and seizing tobacco-based hookah flavors worth ₹39,400. Investigation ongoing.
by Nagpur Trends Team | Published on 2025-03-08 15:19:49
Nagpur, India: On March 7, Crime Branch Unit 2 conducted a raid at Publico Café Hookah Parlour, located near RTMNU Campus Chowk in the Ambazari area, and arrested two individuals for allegedly distributing tobacco-based hookah flavors. This action followed reports of illegal activities taking place at the café.
The individuals arrested were identified as Vikas Raju Dagor (31), a resident of Ramnagar, Telangkhedi, who is the café owner, and Navneet Shankar Varkhade (27), a resident of Mangalwari Bazaar, Sadar, who served as the café manager.
During the raid, the police seized 15 hookah pots and a stock of tobacco-based hookah flavors, with the total value of the items estimated at ₹39,400.
A case has been filed against the accused under Sections 4(1)(21) and 5(1)(21) of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA). The accused, along with the seized items, have been handed over to the Ambazari police for further investigation.
The police have urged citizens to report businesses involved in illegal tobacco sales to ensure compliance with public health regulations.