A high-stakes operation by Nuh’s GST wing has exposed a brazen attempt to circulate counterfeit cigarettes, seizing a truck packed with 86,000 fake Gold Flake sticks estimated at 50 lakh rupees. The interception at Bichhor check post on February 6 has sparked a full-scale investigation into illicit trade networks.
Routine vigilance paid off when officers flagged the truck for checks, revealing the illicit cargo concealed without proper documentation. No invoices, no e-way bills—clear signs of smuggling. Contacting ITC confirmed the worst: the products were bogus.
Priyojit Chatterjee, the company’s rep, lodged a complaint affirming Gold Flake’s trademark status and labeling the act a criminal offense under trade laws. This prompted Bichhor police to file charges under BNS, COTPA, Trademarks Act, and Copyright Act.
The transport company named, Arunachaleswar from Guntur with ties to Vijayawada, is under scrutiny. SI Subhash explained the collaborative effort between GST and police, triggered by the company’s formal grievance.
DSP Jitendra Rana is leading the charge, probing the source, driver details, and accomplices. ‘We’re closing in fast,’ he stated, promising decisive measures.
Beyond the financial hit—50 lakh in evaded revenue—this racket endangers lives with unregulated tobacco. It reflects a broader challenge in curbing fake goods that cheat taxes and health standards alike. Stakeholders await breakthroughs that could unravel larger syndicates.