Hyderabad police crack down on illegal e-cigarette sales from retail outlets

Police in Hyderabad have dismantled an e-cigarette distribution network operating from two retail outlets in the city. The operation, conducted by the EAGLE Force, resulted in the identification of numerous consumers engaged in purchasing the banned products.

During their investigation, authorities identified approximately 130 consumers who had directly purchased e-cigarettes from the two stores. The police investigation extended beyond point-of-sale evidence, with banking transaction data revealing an additional 351 buyers who had acquired the products through electronic payments.

E-cigarettes remain prohibited for sale in India under regulations governing tobacco and nicotine products. The combined identification of over 480 consumers from banking and direct purchase records represents a significant enforcement action targeting both retail distribution and consumer-level violations.

Authorities have indicated that legal proceedings will be initiated against the identified purchasers. The case underscores ongoing efforts by local law enforcement to enforce restrictions on electronic nicotine delivery systems across retail networks in major metropolitan areas.