In a major crackdown, the Central Crime Branch (CCB) of Mangaluru Police raided and shut down an illegal hookah bar operating under the guise of a café inside the parking premises of Mak Mall, Kankanady. The establishment, named Black Moon Resto Café, had a valid business licence from the Mangaluru City Corporation for running a cafeteria during 2023–24.
However, police found that it was secretly functioning as a hookah lounge, violating municipal and state regulations. The raid was conducted under the supervision of ACP Manoj Kumar Naik, with Inspector Rafiq K M leading the team, supported by PSI Sudeep M V, ASI Sujan Shetty, CCB staff, and PSI Manohar Prasad from Mangaluru East Police Station.
Three individuals — Siddiq alias MFC Siddiq, Abdul Nasir, and Safwan — were arrested and booked under applicable legal sections for unauthorised operation and public health violations. Hookah apparatus and tobacco products were confiscated during the operation.
An officer involved in the raid noted that the illegal lounge was primarily targeting young patrons and promoting addictive behaviour, raising serious concerns about youth exposure to harmful substances.
Authorities highlighted that this operation was part of an ongoing effort to curb unauthorised establishments encouraging substance abuse. The incident also serves as a reminder to strengthen surveillance of commercial spaces.
Law enforcement continues to monitor suspicious businesses, especially those in proximity to educational institutions and public hotspots.
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