Massive haul of illegal tobacco busted in Oman, expats arrested

Muscat: More than 1,000 bags and boxes of non-smoking chewing tobacco have been seized in the Wilayat of Barka, South Al Batinah Governorate, said the Consumer Protection Authority (CPA).

The Consumer Protection Department in South Al Batinah Governorate in Barka, along with the Inspection and Market Control Section and the control team of the Non-Smoked Tobacco Control Department, recently conducted a successful operation.

They seized over a thousand bags of smokeless chewing tobacco, as part of their ongoing efforts to control prohibited goods that can negatively impact the behaviors and health of community members. The operation was initiated after receiving reports that a group of expatriate workers was involved in the trading and selling of smokeless chewing tobacco. Following extensive monitoring and investigation, the Law Enforcement Officers and the inspection team, in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour, were able to apprehend the expatriate workers despite their attempts to flee.

The violators admitted to their involvement in the illegal activities, leading to the seizure of the identified quantities of non-smoking chewing tobacco, which amounted to 1660 boxes and bags. Legal measures were taken against the offenders, including the imposition of an administrative fine. They were subsequently referred to the appropriate authorities for further action. These actions by the violators are in direct violation of Article 7 of the Consumer Protection Law, which prohibits the trade and promotion of counterfeit, corrupt, counterfeit, or unauthorised commodities.

The Consumer Protection Authority (CPA) strongly warns individuals against violating consumer rights and causing harm. The authority emphasises that it will take stringent measures to deter such behaviour. CPA is committed to preserving the rights of consumers as guaranteed by the law. Additionally, the Consumer Protection Authority encourages consumers to report any violations they may observe through its various communication channels.