Banned tobacco products seized, three arrested in Nagapattinam

The police have seized 273 kg of gutka and arrested three individuals in a crackdown on the illegal sale and smuggling of banned tobacco products in Nagapattinam district.

Superintendent of Police K.S. Balla Krisshnan had constituted special teams to investigate the background and activities of previous offenders in the district. As part of the initiative, a special team, led by Velankanni Deputy Superintendent of Police P. Nixon, carried out an investigation based on confidential intelligence inputs.

Initially, a small quantity of banned tobacco products was seized. Subsequently, the police traced the origin of the seized goods and uncovered details about their procurement and transportation. Further inquiry revealed that the contraband was being smuggled into Nagapattinam district from another district.

Upon intensifying the investigation, the police identified and arrested three individuals — two from Rajasthan and one from Adirampattinam. Among them was a key accused who had been operating from Bengaluru and allegedly acted as the mastermind behind the smuggling network originating from Rajasthan, the police said.

The police seized a car used for transporting the contraband, along with 273 kg of banned tobacco products. The arrested have been remanded in judicial custody.