Pune Police Crime Branch and FDA Bust Illegal Scented Tobacco Unit in Fursungi; 2 Arrested, Goods Worth ₹31.91 Lakh Seized

PUNE: In a joint operation against the illicit manufacturing and sale of banned tobacco products, the Pune Police Crime Branch (Unit 5) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) raided an illegal scented tobacco and zarda manufacturing unit operating in the Fursungi area. Two individuals have been arrested in connection with the racket.

Acting on specific intelligence regarding the unauthorized manufacturing of prohibited scented tobacco, a joint team from Crime Branch Unit 5 and FDA officials raided the premises. During the search, authorities discovered that raw tobacco was being processed, flavored, and packaged into pouches for distribution.

The enforcement teams confiscated contraband and manufacturing equipment valued at approximately ₹31,91,608.

Key Items Seized:

• Banned Tobacco Stock: 59 boxes of processed scented tobacco products

• Manufacturing Machinery: Automated pouch packing machine used for packaging

• Raw & Flavoring Materials: Rose water, boxes of menthol, and cans of glycerol

• Dairy Stock: 1,080 tins of branded cheese

Officials suspect the premises was operating without mandatory health licenses, flouting the statewide ban imposed on scented tobacco, gutkha, and zarda. The authorities have registered a case under relevant sections of the Food Safety and Standards Act along with provisions of the Indian Penal Code (Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita). Further investigation is underway to track the supply chain and determine how long the illegal unit had been operating.