In a major crackdown on illegal tobacco products, the Sinnar police in Nashik seized banned gutka worth Rs 1.6 crore after intercepting two trucks on the Sinnar-Bargaon Pimpri Road on Sunday night. One driver was arrested, while another managed to flee from the scene.
Arrest and Legal Proceedings
The arrested accused has been identified as Rabbi Shaikh, a resident of Mangrulpir in Washim district. He was produced before a court on Monday and remanded in three days of police custody. Officials stated that the investigation will focus on tracing the source of the contraband and its intended destination.
Operation Details
Acting on a tip-off received by inspector Hemantkumar Bhamre, police teams set up a nakabandi near Sangle farmhouse along the route. At 6 pm, two container trucks suspected of transporting illegal gutka were intercepted. During the operation, while police were questioning the drivers and taking custody of the vehicles, one of the drivers managed to escape.
Seizure and Valuations
A thorough search of the trucks led to the seizure of more than 300 bags of banned tobacco products and pan masala, valued at over Rs 1.6 crore. The two trucks used for transportation were also seized, with an estimated value of approximately Rs 3.5 crore.
Police Team Involved
The police said the action was carried out under the guidance of superintendent of police D S Swami and SDPO Kantilal Patil. The team comprised inspector Bhamre, sub-inspector Ankush Warungase, assistant inspector Samadhan Borade, and other personnel.
