Chennai Special Police Havildar Implicated in Rajapalayam Tobacco Smuggling Ring

Enforcement Action at Jakkammalpuram

Local law enforcement disrupted a distribution network for illicit tobacco products near Rajapalayam on Saturday. A patrol led by Sub-Inspector C. Anandakumar of the Alangulam police station intercepted a two-wheeler in the Jakkammalpuram vicinity. The vehicle carried two men, identified as 28-year-old V. Krishnamoorthi and 28-year-old P. Jeyakumar, both residents of the local area. A search of their belongings revealed a bag containing 80 pouches of banned tobacco items spanning two separate brands.

Police Supply Chain Exposed

During the subsequent interrogation, investigators uncovered a startling link to the state's own security apparatus. The detained pair confessed that their primary supplier was a Havildar serving with the Tamil Nadu Special Police in Chennai. This officer allegedly facilitated the flow of contraband from the state capital to the southern districts. The suspects admitted to targeting specific demographics for their sales, including:

• Construction site laborers in the region
• Employees within the fireworks manufacturing sector
• Small retail kiosks and neighborhood shops

Legal Proceedings and Outstanding Arrests

All three individuals face charges under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) of 2003, which regulates the trade and distribution of such substances. Additionally, the police invoked provisions of the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita regarding the sale of intoxicating products. While Krishnamoorthi and Jeyakumar were taken into custody immediately, the Chennai-based Havildar remains at large. Special teams continue to track the officer as the investigation into the broader smuggling network expands.

Source: The Hindu — Home