In a significant crackdown on establishments selling smoking paraphernalia, the Special Operations Group (SOG) of Surat police has shifted its focus from cigarette rolling papers to hookah outlets. The latest police action targeted the upscale City Light area, resulting in major seizures and detentions.
Major Haul from Posh Locality Raids
The SOG teams conducted simultaneous raids at three prominent shops: Little Goa, Dev Traders, and Rohan Traders. The operation led to the seizure of a staggering 738 hookahs along with substantial quantities of tobacco and flavoured substances. In a related find, the police also confiscated 625 pipes from the premises.
Following the raids, three individuals were taken into custody. The detained shop owners have been identified as Khushalsinh Bisht, Vikas Modi, and Dharmesh Chandlekar. Legal proceedings have been formally initiated against them for their involvement in the trade.
Shocking Designs and Forensic Examination
Police officials expressed shock at the nature of some confiscated items. During the raids, they discovered hookahs crafted in the shapes of AK-47 rifles, missiles, and other machine guns. Authorities believe these designs could appeal to younger demographics.
Several suspicious items, including imported tobacco and various flavoured substances, were secured as evidence. These materials have been sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) for a detailed chemical analysis and examination to determine their exact composition and legality.
High-Value Sales and Customer Probe
Initial investigations by the SOG have uncovered that the shops were selling these hookahs at premium prices, with costs ranging from Rs 5,000 to as high as Rs 50,000 per unit. The wide price range indicates a market catering to various segments.
In a crucial follow-up step, the police are now seeking details of customers who purchased these hookahs. A primary objective is to verify whether any minors or teenagers were sold these items, which would constitute a more serious violation. Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Rajdeep Nakum confirmed the ongoing investigation and the intent to trace the buyer network.
This operation marks an escalation in the SOG's campaign against smoking accessories, which began with city-wide seizures of rolling papers. The focus on hookah bars and shops suggests a broader enforcement drive against all forms of recreational smoking apparatus in the city.
