Mumbai Joint Operation: FDA and Police Seize Illegal Gutkha and Pan Masala Worth Rs 1.07 Lakh, 11 Arrested

Mumbai, 22nd November 2023: In a collaborative effort, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Mumbai Police conducted a successful raid in various parts of the city, seizing illegal stocks of gutkha and pan masala valued at Rs 1,07,420. The joint operation resulted in the arrest of 11 individuals involved in the illegal sale of these banned substances.

The FDA, prompted by numerous complaints about the rampant illegal sale of gutkha and pan masala in Mumbai, joined forces with the Mumbai Police to conduct targeted raids. The operation took place in Borivali, Paral, Dadar, Jogeshwari West, and Mulund West.

Seizures and Arrests:
– In Jogeshwari West, at a Pan Stall, pan masala and aromatic tobacco worth Rs 81,078 were seized, and three samples were taken for examination. The store owner, Mohammad Ali Irshad Ahmed Sheikh, was arrested for selling prohibited substances.
– Action was taken against Girija Store in Borivali West and Gokul Paan Shop at Rokadia Lane, resulting in the seizure of gutkha, pan masala, and aromatic tobacco worth Rs 9,196. Twelve samples were taken for examination, and the owners of both shops were arrested.
– In Paral ST Depot and Dadar West, Dubey Paan Shop and Kiran Paan & Bidi Shop were targeted. The operation yielded the seizure of gutkha, pan masala, and aromatic tobacco worth Rs 9,142. Twenty samples were sent for examination, and cases were registered against the owners, leading to their arrest.
– Mulund West saw raids on Mahakali Pan Shop, Sai Pan Shop, Shiv Pan Shop, Sachi Pan Shop, Ranu Upadhyay Pan Bidi Shop, and Rajesh Jethalal Handkrat. Gutkha, pan masala, and aromatic tobacco worth Rs 8,004 were seized, and 28 samples were taken for testing. Cases were filed against all six shop owners, resulting in their arrest.

The joint operation conducted by the FDA and the Mumbai Police demonstrates a concerted effort to curb the illegal sale of gutkha and pan masala in the city.