Hyderabad Police Nab Trader for Stocking Expired Chewing Tobacco Products

The Goshamahal Police have arrested a trader accused of stockpiling and distributing expired chewing tobacco products across Hyderabad's Jummerath Bazar locality.

During a routine inspection operation conducted on April 30 near Madiga Bandhu Function Hall on Jummerath Bazar Road at around 12:30 pm, law enforcement officers discovered the illicit merchandise. The raid targeted a grocery vendor who was also dealing in tobacco items.

Officers uncovered approximately 100 boxes of "Elvee Special Chewing Tobacco" that violated multiple regulatory standards. The investigation revealed that numerous packets were missing crucial information including expiry dates, manufacturing details, and valid barcodes. Among the problematic stock were packets traced to a 2023 batch, raising serious public health concerns.

The accused, identified as Mohammed Firoz Ali, 35, hails from Kumraki Gumbad in Ziaguda and is the son of Mohammed Hamza Ali. According to police, he had procured the tobacco products in bulk from Malakpet at discounted rates with the intention of reselling them at weekly markets for commercial gain.

SI L. Narasimha registered the case as Crime No. 152/2026 under Sections 125, 274 and 318 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. These provisions address violations of public safety regulations, product adulteration intended for sale, and fraudulent commercial conduct.

The seized tobacco stock, valued at approximately Rs. 10,000, has been secured for legal proceedings. The accused remains in police custody as authorities continue their investigation. Officials have indicated that enhanced surveillance operations will be maintained against traders involved in the sale of expired and substandard merchandise throughout the city.