Nagpur, India: Pachpaoli police arrested a man involved in the illegal sale of banned tobacco products during a raid conducted in the early hours of August 14, 2024. Acting on a tip-off, the police set up a trap and raided a residence on the third floor of a building in the New Wasti area, near Afroz Kirana Stores, within the jurisdiction of Pachpaoli Police Station.

During the raid, Ahmed Ansari, 31, was caught with a large stash of prohibited tobacco items, including popular brands like Vimal, Sagar, Rajshree, Pinky, Musafir, and SGR Gutkha, as well as Rimjhim Zarda. Additionally, the police seized 40 kilograms of loose tobacco, a mixer machine, betel nuts, other tobacco-related materials, two cans of liquid substances, packing machines, empty packets, a weighing scale, and a stitching machine. The total value of the seized items is estimated at ₹2,09,900.

Upon interrogation, Ahmed Ansari confessed to running the illegal tobacco business with the help of his accomplice, Parvez Imtiyaz Ansari, 42, who resides in the same area. Parvez is currently wanted by the police.

The police have registered a case against the accused under Sections 188, 272, 273, and 328 of the Indian Penal Code, along with Section 59 of the Food Safety and Standards Act. Ahmed Ansari has been arrested, and the search for his associate is ongoing. The police have intensified their efforts to crack down on the illegal sale of tobacco products in the region as part of a broader campaign to enforce public health and safety standards.