The security services of Bejaia province have seized more than 20 quintals of adulterated chewing tobacco (shamma) intended for sale and arrested two suspects, according to a statement issued by the security body on Thursday.
The statement explained that police services in the Kherrata district, in the eastern part of the province, seized the tobacco this week as part of efforts to maintain public health and protect consumers.
The operation followed information received by the police regarding a secret workshop for packaging chewing tobacco in a garage of a building in downtown Kherrata. Security forces raided the location and arrested two individuals, aged 21 and 58.
The raid resulted in the seizure of 22 kg of tobacco prepared for marketing, along with three small electronic scales, according to the same statement.
Investigations led to the discovery of more than 20 quintals of adulterated tobacco after searching a house opposite the garage owned by the father of one of the suspects. Additionally, 42 kg of ash, a large bag of dry tobacco leaves, and a mechanical machine used for preparing the tobacco were seized.
A criminal case has been initiated against the suspects for possession of tobacco without legal documentation, practicing a commercial activity without a license, and providing adulterated materials harmful to human health.
In a separate case, the provincial judicial police of Bejaia, in coordination with trade and agricultural officials, seized and destroyed more than 220 kg of white meat unfit for human consumption that was intended for marketing.
