In a significant crackdown on the sale of illicit tobacco, the Trichy police have made a major seizure and arrested one individual in the Srirangam area. The operation, conducted on Sunday, led to the confiscation of a large quantity of banned tobacco products.
Major Haul During Vehicle Check
A police team, under the leadership of Sub-Inspector Sundaram, was conducting a routine vehicle inspection near Mambazhasalai in Srirangam. During this check, they stopped a two-wheeler for scrutiny. Upon searching the vehicle, the officers discovered that the rider was in possession of a substantial amount of banned tobacco products.
The police successfully seized approximately 36 kilograms of the contraband material. The estimated market value of the seized products is a significant ₹51,300. The rider was immediately taken into custody.
Accused Booked Under Stringent Laws
The arrested individual has been identified as Arunpandian, aged 34, a resident of Selva Vinayagar Kovil Street on E B Road. Following his arrest, the police have registered a case against him under serious legal provisions.
He has been charged under Section 6 read with 24(1) of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (COTP) Act. Additionally, a case has been filed under the new Section 123 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). After the necessary legal procedures, Arunpandian was remanded to judicial custody.
Separate Pan Masala Seizure in Palakkarai
In a related but separate incident, the Palakkarai police station also took action against banned substances. On Manal Varithurai Road, officers confiscated 100 grams of banned pan masala.
In connection with this case, the police arrested Viswa Bharathi, a 21-year-old individual. However, unlike the first accused, Viswa Bharathi was later released from custody after being granted bail by the court.
These twin operations highlight the continued vigilance of the Trichy City police against the illegal trade of banned tobacco and related products. The use of the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita provisions indicates a stricter legal approach to such offenses. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to conducting regular checks and taking stringent action against those flouting public health and safety laws.
