Sacks of unlicensed tobacco products were stored on several farms in Ras Al Khaimah. DED

The Department of Economic Development (DED) in Ras Al Khaimah, in collaboration with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA), has seized 7,195 kilograms of tax-evaded tobacco and dukkha with an estimated market value of Dh12 million. This comes after a series of joint monitoring campaigns aimed at uncovering illicit trade in the southern regions of Ras Al Khaimah. The discovery was made on several farms where unlicensed tobacco products were found. Authorities reported that Asian workers employed on the farms confessed to their involvement in the illegal tobacco trade. The workers admitted to mixing expired tobacco with dyes, a violation of the Consumer Protection Law, which strictly prohibits the distribution of unsafe tobacco products. Further investigations revealed that these illegal activities had been going on for several months. The materials were confiscated, and the individuals involved were referred to judicial authorities. Fines were also imposed for conducting commercial activities without the necessary licenses. “We will take all necessary measures against those who harm consumers and violate their rights. Our monitoring team is committed to protecting the community and will continue to conduct regular inspections," said Faisal Alioune, Director of the Commercial Control and Protection Department at Ras Al Khaimah’s DED. Heurged consumers to report any violations through official communication channels. Meanwhile, the Federal Tax Authority emphasized that such joint operations are part of broader efforts to ensure compliance with tax regulations and consumer safety laws. ICA/Expat Media
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