Bhatkal: Joint raid on shops selling tobacco near schools, 14 booked

Bhatkal: A joint team led by the Health Department carried out raids on shops located within 100 metres of schools and colleges in the town and Bunder Road area for illegally selling tobacco products. Officials said 14 shops were found violating the rules and action has been taken against them.

During the inspection, some shops were also found selling tobacco products to students. A total fine of Rs 3,100 has been imposed on the violators.

Health Inspector Srinivas R., Taluk Health Education Officer Ramu, Social Welfare Department’s Geetha Hegde, Praveen from the Tahsildar’s office, along with staff from the Police Department, Women and Child Welfare Department and the Town Panchayat participated in the operation.