HYDERABAD: Telangana’s EAGLE Force, in coordination with Kushaiguda Police, has seized 39 banned electronic cigarettes during a joint operation at The Smoke Shop in Sainikpuri, Hyderabad. Two people were apprehended in connection with the alleged illegal sale of e-cigarettes.
According to an EAGLE Force press note, investigators are examining an alleged interstate supply network linked to financial transactions exceeding ₹10 crore. The wider financial trail is under investigation, and the figure does not necessarily represent the value of the products seized in the Sainikpuri operation.
Police also seized one payment scanner and three mobile phones for further investigation.
Two Apprehended; Supplier Reportedly Absconding
- The two apprehended persons were identified as Ubais, 20, reportedly the owner of the outlet, and Ussainar PH, 19, who allegedly worked at the shop. Both are natives of Kerala and were residing in Sainikpuri, according to the press note.
- Investigators suspect that a person identified as Arshad, reportedly from Kerala, supplied e-cigarettes to the outlet. The press note states that he is absconding and that efforts are underway to trace him.
- According to investigators, the alleged supply arrangement began in July 2026, when Ubais reportedly purchased e-cigarettes worth ₹50,000 from the suspected supplier. Another consignment was allegedly obtained during a visit to Bengaluru in September.
- These allegations remain subject to further investigation.
WhatsApp Orders and Digital Payments Examined
- The investigation indicates that the outlet allegedly used WhatsApp to inform customers about available e-cigarette brands and arrange deliveries.
- According to the press note, payments were collected through PhonePe using a scanner linked to a Canara Bank account in Kasaragod, Kerala. Deliveries were reportedly arranged through Rapido, with available records showing 26 deliveries from 3 August 2026 onwards.
- Investigators have identified approximately 45 consumers in Hyderabad who allegedly purchased e-cigarettes from the outlet. The shop reportedly sold around three to four devices per day.
- Police are examining the seized mobile phones, payment records and delivery information to identify additional customers, suppliers and other people who may have been involved.
- The role and knowledge, if any, of delivery service providers in transporting prohibited products will need to be established through evidence. The investigation does not by itself establish wrongdoing by any delivery company.
Transactions Exceeding ₹10 Crore Under Scrutiny
- EAGLE Force stated that its wider investigation into the alleged interstate e-cigarette trade has identified financial transactions exceeding ₹10 crore linked to entities in Kasaragod, Kerala, and Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka.
- Investigators are examining the source and movement of consignments, financial transactions, retail distribution and the people who may have benefited from the alleged trade.
- The figure relates to the wider investigation and should not be interpreted as the confirmed turnover of the Sainikpuri shop alone.
Seven Outlets Raided in Two Months
- According to EAGLE Force, its teams have raided seven shops or outlets over the past two months for allegedly selling banned e-cigarettes and vapes.
- The latest operation is part of efforts to identify and disrupt the alleged supply and retail distribution of prohibited electronic cigarettes in Telangana.
Why Are E-Cigarettes Prohibited in India?
- The Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019, prohibits activities including the production, manufacture, import, export, transport, sale, distribution, storage and advertisement of electronic cigarettes, subject to the Act’s provisions.
- E-cigarettes can expose users to nicotine, which is addictive and can harm the developing adolescent brain. The health risks are particularly concerning when these products are marketed or made available to children and young people.
- Parents, teachers and educational institutions are encouraged to educate young people about vaping risks and report suspected illegal sales to the appropriate authorities.
Case Registered; Investigation Continues
- According to the press note, a case has been registered at Kushaiguda Police Station under Crime No. 810/2026, invoking Section 318(4) read with Section 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Section 4 read with Section 7 of the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019, and Section 20(2) of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act.
- Further investigation is underway to trace the suspected absconding supplier, examine the financial trail and establish the extent of the alleged illegal trade.
EAGLE Force Appeals to the Public
EAGLE Force has urged parents, schools, educational institutions and residents to remain vigilant about the sale and use of banned e-cigarettes. It has asked the public to share credible information about the manufacture, storage, transportation, sale or distribution of prohibited products.
Reporting channels provided by EAGLE Force:
- Toll free: 1908
- WhatsApp: 87126 71111
- Email: tsnabho-hyd@tspolice.gov.in
- Website: eagleforce.tspolice.gov.in
The department says information provided by credible informants will be kept confidential and that suitable rewards may be offered.
Source: EAGLE Force, Telangana – press note on the Sainikpuri e-cigarette seizure and the wider alleged interstate supply network.
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