Couple Arrested for Illegal Gutka Possession Near Katpadi

Vellore North police arrested a couple, identified as K. Nagaraj (48) and his wife N. Mahalakshmi (45), for possessing approximately 40 kg of banned gutka intended for illegal sale. The arrest occurred near Katpadi following a surprise inspection conducted by a special team under the orders of Vellore Superintendent of Police N.U. Sivaraman. During the raid on petty shops near the new bus terminus off the Chennai-Bengaluru National Highway, Mahalakshmi attempted to flee but was apprehended. A search of her shop revealed five kilograms of the banned substance. Acting on her confession, authorities raided the couple's residence, where an additional 35 kilograms were seized. Investigators stated that the couple had been sourcing these prohibited items from Chittoor in Andhra Pradesh for retail distribution in Tamil Nadu. Both individuals have been lodged in the Central Prison in Vellore, and a formal case has been registered. The police continue to investigate the supply chain and further details surrounding the illegal trade operation. This incident highlights ongoing enforcement efforts against the sale of banned tobacco products in the region.