Malkajgiri SOT books seven, registers four cases in drive against hookah centres
HYDERABAD: The Malkajgiri Special Operations Team (SOT) inspected 14 hookah centres and cafés across the commissionerate limits and registered four criminal cases for multiple violations. The team also apprehended seven people and initiated legal proceedings.
Police officials said they conducted the inspections based on credible information. They said the drive was part of routine enforcement to curb unauthorised commercial activities, ensure public health standards and maintain law and order.
During the inspections, officers found several hookah centres operating without the required permissions. They also found violations of prescribed safety guidelines.
Malkajgiri Police warned hookah centre owners, café managers and others running similar businesses to comply with legal requirements. They urged them to obtain all necessary licences and approvals before continuing operations.
Officials said they would take strict legal action against anyone violating regulations. Such action would include criminal cases and seizure of materials.
Police Commissioner B. Sumathi supervised the special drive, while K. Manohar guided the operation.
Police said they will continue surprise inspections and enforcement drives in the coming days to ensure compliance with laws and safety norms.
