Hyderabad, 4 August
Hyderabad Police Bust Massive Adulterated Spice Racket, Seize 25 Tonnes and Arrest Three
In one of the biggest anti-food adulteration operations in recent months, police bust massive adulterated spice racket in Hyderabad by seizing more than 25 tonnes of adulterated spices and arresting three accused. The operation was conducted by Hyderabad Police’s Food Adulteration Surveillance Team (H-FAST) in coordination with the GHMC Food Safety Department following intelligence inputs about illegal spice processing units.
Officials said the raids exposed the alleged use of hazardous chemicals, industrial dyes, talcum powder, and other non-edible substances to enhance the appearance, weight, and market value of spices sold to consumers.
Three Arrested After Raids at 13 Spice Processing Units
As part of the operation in which police bust massive adulterated spice racket, officials inspected 13 establishments engaged in the procurement, processing, packaging, and sale of spices across Hyderabad.
The three arrested accused have been identified as:
- Rahul Bhati of Katedan
- Vishal Panwar of Begum Bazaar
- Dulichand Kachhawar of Begum Bazaar
Police registered three criminal cases, including two at Mailardevpally Police Station and one at Balapur Police Station, in connection with the illegal activities.
Investigators said the accused allegedly adulterated various spices before supplying them to the market to increase profits.
Over 25 Tonnes of Adulterated Spices Seized
During the extensive raids, authorities seized more than 25 tonnes of adulterated spices, making it one of the largest food adulteration seizures in Hyderabad this year.
The confiscated products included:
- Ajwain (carom seeds)
- Jeera (cumin)
- Cloves
- Mustard
- Fennel
- Jeera dust
Officials also recovered large quantities of raw materials, including fenugreek seeds and sesame seeds, which were allegedly used during the adulteration process.
The seized stocks have been sent for further examination as part of the ongoing investigation.
Hazardous Chemicals and Industrial Dyes Used in Spices
Addressing a press conference on Tuesday, Hyderabad Police Commissioner V. C. Sajjanar said investigators found shocking methods of food adulteration at several spice processing units.
According to the Commissioner, some operators allegedly mixed rejected mustard stocks with fabric dye, talcum powder, and edible oil to improve the colour, shine, and weight of the products.
Officials also discovered that synthetic colours and industrial-grade dyes were being used to coat spices, making them appear fresh and more attractive before being sold in the market.
Authorities warned that the use of such non-edible substances poses serious health risks to consumers.
H-FAST Intensifies Drive Against Food Adulteration
The latest operation, in which police bust massive adulterated spice racket, is part of Hyderabad Police’s sustained campaign against food adulteration.
According to official figures, H-FAST has achieved the following over the past 140 days:
- Conducted 659 raids
- Registered 202 FIRs
- Seized nearly 246 tonnes of adulterated food products
- Referred 232 cases to the GHMC Food Safety Department for further legal action
Officials said strict enforcement will continue against those involved in manufacturing and selling adulterated food products.
Police Advise Citizens to Stay Vigilant
Following the successful crackdown, Hyderabad Police urged residents to purchase spices and other food products only from licensed and authorised vendors.
Citizens have also been requested to report any suspected food adulteration immediately through:
- Dial 100
- H-FAST Helpline: 8712661212
Police said public cooperation is essential in identifying illegal food processing units and preventing adulterated food from reaching consumers.
Investigation Underway
Officials said the investigation is continuing to identify others who may be linked to the adulterated spice network. Additional inspections and legal action are expected if further violations are uncovered.
Hyderabad Police reiterated that strict action will be taken against anyone involved in food adulteration, emphasizing that such offences directly endanger public health and consumer safety.