Pune: FDA Raid Seizes Pan Masala Worth Over Six Lakhs In Moshi

Moshi, 23rd November 2023: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) conducted a raid in Moshi, leading to the seizure of prohibited tobacco pan masala and aromatic tobacco worth an estimated 6 lakh 49 thousand 20. The enforcement action, carried out by FDA officials, also resulted in the confiscation of the food storage and vehicles involved in the illegal trade.

The seized stock included popular banned brands such as Vimal Panmasala, RMD Pan Masala, V1 Aromatic Tobacco, and M Aromatic Tobacco, among others. The operation targeted a vehicle with registration number MH 14 HU 2042. Subsequently, a case was registered against Kishore Harakchand Sundecha at the Bhosari MIDC Police Station, for storing prohibited food items for sale.

The crackdown comes by the state’s strict measures against the production, storage, distribution, and sale of tobacco products, including gutka, pan masala, aromatic tobacco, and aromatic betel nut. A government order dated July 18, 2023, has imposed a blanket ban on these items for a period of one year. This move is aimed at safeguarding public interest and the health of citizens.

Suresh Annapure, the Joint Commissioner (Food), urged citizens to play an active role in combating the sale of banned gutkha, pan masala, and similar products. He emphasized the importance of public cooperation in reporting any information related to the illegal sale of these prohibited items. Citizens are encouraged to use the administration’s toll-free number, 1800222365, to provide relevant information discreetly.