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A significant cache of illegal disposable e-cigarettes was seized by a team of the Special Operation Group (SOG) of Crime during a raid in Naroda, Ahmedabad, following a delayed yet crucial complaint from a local informant.
The contraband, consisting of high-nicotine vape products from international brands such as Elfbar, Compak, and Yuoto, was being sold without authorisation, in violation of Indian regulations governing electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS).
All products were clearly labelled as Designed & Made in China and contained ingredients such as vegetable glycerin, propylene glycol, artificial and natural flavours, and nicotine concentrations as high as 50 mg/ml, significantly exceeding permissible levels.
The operation was initiated after a resident, whose identity has been withheld for security reasons, provided detailed evidence of suspicious activities at a local commercial outlet near Haridarshan crossroads in Naroda.
The complaint had initially been delayed due to fears of reprisal and uncertainty regarding the legal implications, but it ultimately prompted a comprehensive investigation.
The complainant disclosed that the accused was selling e-cigarettes to minors and promoting them through covert word-of-mouth networks, often disguising the products as imported “herbal wellness” items.
Further inquiries led police to a vendor, Rohan Thakor, reportedly operating the illegal trade through a front shop named Seven Flavours. During the raid, officers uncovered large quantities of nicotine vapes concealed behind soft drink displays and false panels in the storage area.
The Special Operations Group (SOG) of Crime has registered an FIR and initiated formal investigation procedures under the relevant sections of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) and the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. Authorities are now working to dismantle the illegal network and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.