Muscat – The Consumer Protection Authority (CPA), in coordination with  Royal Oman Police, has seized nearly 54,000 illegal tobacco products in two separate operations as part of intensified efforts to protect public health and curb the sale of prohibited products.

In the largest operation, the Consumer Protection Department in South Sharqiyah and officers from Sur Police Station raided a residential property in Sur after receiving information that expatriate workers were using the house to store and prepare illegal tobacco products.

Following the completion of legal procedures, inspectors seized 6,745 bags and packages of smokeless chewing tobacco and 47,227 packs of cigarettes that did not comply with approved Omani standards and regulations. Authorities also confiscated equipment and materials used to prepare and package the products. Legal proceedings have been initiated against those involved.

In a separate operation, the CPA’s North Batinah Directorate General, represented by the Department of Consumer Services and Market Surveillance, seized a commercial establishment for possessing and selling prohibited electronic cigarettes and tobacco products.

The action followed a report alleging that the outlet was displaying and selling banned products. After verifying the information, judicial officers inspected the premises and confiscated 17 electronic cigarettes, 123 packs of prohibited cigarettes and ten electronic cigarette accessories.

The products were found to be in violation of Decision No 756/2023, which prohibits the circulation of electronic cigarettes, electronic shisha and their accessories in Oman. A violation report was issued, the products were confiscated and legal action is underway against the offenders.