1.3 Tonne Gutkha Seized in Pernambut, Three Arrested

Quick Summary:

• Police seized 1.3 tonnes of gutka stored in 20 gunny bags during a surprise check in Pernambut town, near Katpadi, Vellore, on Thursday.
• Three persons were arrested: A. Rawther Ahmed (50), A. Kahja sheik (20), and R. Pares Ahmed (30). They are relatives and residents of Pernambut town.
• The rented building used as a godown had been stocked with gutka intended for retail dealers in industrial towns like Sriperumbudur and Oragadam in Kancheepuram.
• The operation was carried out following orders from Vellore Superintendent of police, A. Mayilvaganan; led by Inspector K. Prabhu after constable S. Nandakumar received an alert about the illegal stockpile.
• The arrested individuals are currently lodged at Central Prison in Vellore, while the inquiry continues.

Indian Opinion Analysis:

the seizure highlights the ongoing issue of banned substances like gutka being transported illicitly across Tamil Nadu despite legal prohibitions against their production and sale due to health risks such as oral cancer and other diseases linked to its consumption. Coordination between local authorities underscores their vigilance but also exposes systemic challenges in controlling underground networks tied to illegal trade.

If significant amounts continue reaching industrial towns like sriperumbudur and Oragadam – economic hubs attracting workers from diverse regions – it underscores the need for stronger enforcement mechanisms not just locally but statewide to intercept such activities at transit points or sources effectively.

This incident serves as a reminder that respecting public health policy must be prioritized alongside building awareness campaigns targeting vulnerable populations where banned products still find acceptance or demand despite regulations.

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