Gutkha Smuggler Busted Near Chennai Metro

In a significant bust, Choolaimedu police arrested a 45-year-old man named Vetrivel for allegedly smuggling banned gutkha tobacco products. The operation took place near the Arumbakkam Metro Rail Station on Friday. Police seized a total of 445.5 kg of gutkha packets, an auto-rickshaw, and a light commercial vehicle as part of their enforcement drive.

Acting on a tip-off, officers intercepted an auto-rickshaw and discovered concealed gutkha packets. Further investigation revealed that Vetrivel transferred the contraband from a commercial vehicle parked nearby. He confessed to transporting the gutkha for distribution to another location. Police confirmed Vetrivel has a previous gutkha-related case pending against him at the Triplicane police station. Vetrivel was remanded in judicial custody.