Suhar – Authorities in North Batinah have shut down an illegal site used for manufacturing and trading chewing tobacco, seizing more than 1,000kg of materials in a joint operation.

The Directorate General of Consumer Protection in the governorate, in coordination with the Royal Oman Police’s Narcotics Control Department, carried out the raid as part of ongoing efforts to curb the circulation of unauthorised goods.

The operation followed reports that chewing tobacco was being produced and distributed from a farm in the governorate. Acting on the information, judicial officers launched surveillance and investigations to verify the activity before coordinating with relevant authorities to move in on the site.

During the raid, officials confiscated three machines used in the manufacturing and mixing process, along with large quantities of materials linked to the illegal operation. These included more than 1,000kg ready-to-sell tobacco and raw material used in production. 

A suspect was arrested at the site, and all seized items have been confiscated pending destruction in line with legal procedures. Authorities confirmed that investigations are ongoing ahead of referring the case to the Public Prosecution.

Officials reiterated their commitment to intensifying inspection campaigns across the wilayats of North Batinah to safeguard consumers and ensure market compliance. Residents have been urged to report any violations through official communication channels